Android One is a basic version of Android, without bells and whistles. Google promises to regularly update devices with this operating system. For example, a phone with Android One lasts a long time.
Why Android One?
Android One is kind of a basic version of the Android operating system. It arose from a need to make smartphones last longer.
There are many Android phones where the manufacturer of the phone (for example Samsung or Huawei) opts for its own variant of the Android operating system. For example, by already installing apps on the device, or by choosing your own design in the house colors of the manufacturer. The maker of the phone then determines how often improvements and necessary adjustments are made to the phone software. This update policy can sometimes be disappointing. There are plenty of stories about phones not being regularly updated a year after the release date.
Google, the maker of Android, has therefore opted for a simple operating system that does receive the promised updates. Android One was launched in 2014. The promise is: guaranteed regular updates for up to two years after release and security updates for up to three years after release.
What are the advantages?
The big advantage of Android One is of course that there are regular updates, for a guaranteed period. But it is also nice that:
- An Android One device has fewer pre-installed apps.
- As a result, the battery drains less quickly.
- There is more room to install apps yourself.
- The user-friendliness is high due to the simple design.
- Updates become available soon.
A disadvantage is that Android One is only available on certain devices. Your choice of telephone is therefore more limited.
Buy a phone with Android One
As mentioned, a select number of phones use Android One. Android One can be found on devices from Nokia, Motorola and Xiaomi, among others. In the case of Nokia, this applies to all phones, from budget devices to the more expensive segment. At Motorola and Xiaomi it concerns a few devices.
If you are going to buy a new phone, you can filter on Android One at some web shops. Bee bol.com and coolblue are pages on which all Android One devices are collected. In a physical store you can of course ask which phone Android One is installed on. The seller will then help you further.
When buying a new smartphone, more factors are important. Read more about this in the article ‘Buy a new smartphone’.