Wonder

Log in

Android One

Delivered September 23, 2019. Contributor: Dagmawit W.

Goals

To learn more about the Android 1 product with a focus on the reason Google initiated it and its value proposition to inform a similar product venture and understand the initial drivers.

Early Findings

ANDROID ONE
  • It was initially started in 2014 targeting developing countries.
  • It is described as "the purest form of Android."
  • According to Google, "the best version of Android, right out of the box."
  • The label is found on the back of phones that have this OS.
  • The first product to incorporate this was the HTC U11 Life.
  •  Nokia became a major partner. LG and Motorolla also have some products that have it.
WHY
VALUE PROPOSITION
  • It does not have the apps and features that manufacturers normally add.
  • This product is free from "bloat."
  • It offers Google services with all the necessary apps from Google.
  • It offers support with its Google Assistant. 
  • It even offers support for the hardware components.
  • This product also offers upto two years of upgrades and latest versions.
  • The battery power will last longer as the phone's background activity will only run for the most important apps.
  • One value proposition is that, "...your phone will even reduce power usage while it’s in your pocket or purse."
  • The Google lens feature offers much more text manipulation than the ordinary camera app loaded by Android manufacturers.
  •  Storage capacity is resolved by offering free space for photos without compromising the quality with the Google Photos app.
  • Android One phones are the most secure with monthly security updates and integrated with Google Play Protect. 

Proposed next steps:

You need to be the project owner to select a next step.
Our initial research was able to determine why Google initiated this project and its value proposition. We recommend additional research to identify 2-3 similar companies/products that are attempting to resolve the issue of "bloat" and enhancing the user experience on mobile phones.
Additionally, we recommend providing an analysis of at least 6-8 products. We will address the partnerships involved such as with the manufacturer, the components of its design, how Android 1 adds value, at least 3 reviews of the product, and any statistics on sales/revenue.
We could also provide 4-5 insights into the history of Android 1. This will include when it started, its growth journey, and where it stands today. We will attempt to provide insights that depict the entire journey and not limited to its history or its current state.