tech2 News Staff

One of the major announcements at the Google I/O was Android One, which is Google's attempt at capturing the mass base in emerging markets with affordable Android handsets that run Google-blessed software.

According to sources in the Taiwanese handset supply chain, Google has reportedly chosen MediaTek as its strategic solution partner for the development of the Android One platform, reported Digitimes.

MediaTek SoCs are seen in a number of budget handsets selling across India at the moment. For the Android One platform, Google and MediaTek are expected to work on releasing handsets that are even cheaper - think sub-$100 phones. For the Android One initiative, Google will offer a set of hardware and software guidelines or reference design platforms based on which device makers are expected to build affordable handsets.

Google has been in talks with MediaTek for the past six months according to Digitimes. Google showcased an Android One handset at the Google I/O event made by Micromax. This Android One handset features a 4.5-inch screen, dual-SIM configuration, FM radio and it was powered by a dual-core MediaTek MT6575 SoC.

MediaTek stands a chance to collaborated with Google on future Android tablets as well as Android TVs if the Android One project goes about smoothly, according to sources quoted by Digitimes.