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Mozilla U-turns low-cost smartphone tack

Staff Writer
By Staff Writer, ITWeb
Johannesburg, 26 May 2015
Mozilla introduced Firefox OS in 2013 to meet the needs of the next two billion people who would come online via mobile devices.
Mozilla introduced Firefox OS in 2013 to meet the needs of the next two billion people who would come online via mobile devices.

Mozilla - the open source software maker behind the Firefox operating system - has reportedly changed tack in its low-cost smartphone strategy, in light of insurmountable competition in the space.

According to CNET, the company has now revamped its Firefox mobile software project, after concluding its "world's cheapest smartphone" - the $25 handset it was planning for the developing world - would not be able to take on smartphone giants Google and Apple.

In February last year, ITWeb reported Mozilla had signed a deal with Spreadtrum to use its newly debuted SC8621 silicon chipset, which the chipmaker said "redefined the entry-level of the global smartphone market".

At the time, during Mobile World Congress 2014, Spreadrum said new solutions expanded the global accessibility of open Web smartphones to first-time and entry-level smartphone buyers, by reducing the time and cost required for handset makers to bring these devices to market.

However, according to CNET, an e-mail from new CEO Chris Beard last Thursday, reveals Mozilla has changed its strategy to a new "Ignite" initiative that emphasises phones with compelling features, not just lower price tags.

"It's also considering letting its operating system run apps written for its top rival, Google's Android," reports the tech site.

CNET cites Beard's mail: "We will build phones and connected devices that people want to buy because of the experience, not simply the price. We gave not seen sufficient traction for a $25 phone, and we will not pursue all parts of the programme."

A non-profit organisation, Mozilla first gained recognition about a decade ago, with the introduction of its Firefox Web browser. In 2013, the company embarked on a mobile strategy, introducing Firefox OS for smartphones.

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