Reliance Jio and Google join hands to build a new Android-based operating system for smartphones

In major business development, Reliance Industries Limited has announced plans to tie up with Google for a new Android-based operating system for an entry-level smartphone for the Indian market. The new OS will arrive on smartphones in the entry-level category and is aimed at users who are on 2G based feature phone. In its announcement, Mukesh Ambani said Jio aims to get rid of 2G phones from the market - putting a 4G smartphone in everyone's hands.

 Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries, said, “Google has empowered millions of Indians to access helpful information and, like Jio, is a force for change and innovation. We welcome Google onboard and are excited about our partnership for what it can deliver to Indians, from universalising Internet usage to deepening the new digital economy and providing a prime mover to India’s economic growth. Together, we hope to play a strong facilitative role in the transformative journey of building a new, Digital India."

Google on its India blog stated, "Google and Jio Platforms have entered into a commercial agreement to jointly develop an entry-level affordable smartphone with optimizations to the Android operating system and the Play Store. At the same time, Reliance Jio is also focusing on pushing affordable 5G smartphones in India. This comes as Reliance Industries announced the Rs 33,373 crore investment by technology giant Google in Jio Platforms for a 7.7% stake. The announcement gains significance, as the government considers promoting Indian manufacturers and technology companies in telecom.