Google initially launched their ambitious Android One program to get low cost devices in the hands of as many people as possible in emerging markets, all while securing the smartphone and tablet market with Google services. Unfortunately, it looks like Android One hasn't quite gotten the results Google was expecting.
Android One definitely hasn't been a failure, but devices shipped by local manufacturers haven't really caught fire as far as sales go. Among those manufacturers, and some of the bigger OEMs that jumped on board with low-cost program, interest has dipped quite a bit from when it was announced.
Android One launched right on the cusp of device prices falling out. Google wanted to introduce tons of devices that were easily purchased for less than $100 without any kinds of contracts, but it's not tough to find quality sub-$100 devices from other devices anymore. While Android One devices are much more likely to stay updated, that's not a big enough selling point for many customers.
Even if Android One numbers aren't doing exceptionally well, the program does fit into Google's bigger plan to get as many as people as possible connected to the internet and, hopefully, using Google services and seeing Google-served ads. It'll be interesting to see how much attention Google gives Android One going forward, though.
source: Fierce Wireless
