Google to bring Android One phones to U.S., report claims

Google is planning to bring its low-cost “Android One” program to the United States in an effort to boost the Android brand, according to a new report. Its first device is expected to land before the middle of the year, priced between $200 and $300.

The Android One program was launched to provide emerging markets with better low-cost smartphones. Unlike other budget handsets, those in the Android One program get timely updates directly from Google for at least two years.

Google also has greater control over Android One devices and ensures each one is running pure Android software. There is no bloat or third-party interfaces that can cause more affordable devices with slower processors and less RAM to be bogged down.

The Android One program made its debut in September 2014 and is currently available in a whole host countries, including Pakistan, India, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. Now, according to a report from The Information, Google is bringing it to the U.S.

It’s unclear which manufacturer will build Google’s first Android One device for North America, or exactly when it will be available. However, the report claims it is “expected before the middle of the year,” and will be priced “in the $200-$300 price range.”

The Information has been reliable with Google rumors in the past, so this could be good news for Android fans who have been wanting to get their hands on an ultra-affordable smartphone with pure Google software. But it’s far from official just yet.