Intex and Celkon to Join Google's Android One program

Micromax, Karbonn and Spice were announced as the first Android One initiative partners at Google I/O and now two more have joined the ranks, Intex and Celkon. The Android One initiative aims to provide low-cost Android smartphones for the masses.

Google has provided a reference hardware model which could cost as low as $100 (about Rs. 6000) to make and the Android One devices will need to run standard/stock Android, so that faster updates will be available. Google also showed Micromax's first Android One device which is expected to come with a 4.5-inch display, dual-SIM capability, FM Radio running latest version of Android.

HTC is also expected to join the Android One initiative to boost sales. But at present there is no timeline to that front. Google has said that it will take care of marketing for the Android One program with a Rs. 100 crore budget aimed at its advertising.