Currently, many cheap smartphones in India and other emerging markets run different and somewhat customised versions of the Android operating system. The many variations they produce make the phones prone to glitches, and leave Google with almost no control over its platform. Google will also have Wi-Fi-equipped mobile demo trucks called ‘Showroom on Wheels’ in 600 locations across 20 cities to allow potential consumers to experience the Android One phones. Google is also working on allowing users to watch YouTube videos offline in a country where access to the internet is often pricey and patchy. Airtel will offer 200MB free data per month for app downloads and updates via Play Store. However, Google clarified that it is not paying Airtel for the subsidy and other telecom operators will also join the programme in the near future. Android One devices will feature mid-range specs including a 4.5-inch touchscreen, 1.3 GHz MediaTek processor and 4GB internal memory among other mid-range features. However, what will set these devices apart is their low data usage and access to free YouTube in a couple of weeks. Yes, users of these phones will be able to access YouTube without any data charge.
