The Amazon Fire phone was unfortunately not a successful product for the company, although they have apparently not given up on mobile phones just yet and details have emerged of an Amazon Ice smartphone.
The Amazon Fire Phone was discontinued back in 2015 and now Amazon is apparently looking to launch a new smartphone in developing markets like India.
Amazon’s New Strategy in Mobile Phones
According to a recent report from NDTV, Amazon has been testing two prototype handsets, one with a 5.2-inch display and the other with a 5.5-inch display. This move indicates Amazon’s renewed interest in the mobile phone market, particularly in regions where affordable smartphones are in high demand.
The handsets are also said to come with a Snapdragon 435 processor and 2GB of RAM, plus 16GB of storage and a 13-megapixel camera, plus Android Nougat. These specifications suggest that Amazon is aiming to provide a balanced mix of performance and affordability. The Snapdragon 435 processor, while not the latest, is known for its efficiency and decent performance in budget smartphones. The inclusion of 2GB of RAM and 16GB of storage is quite standard for entry-level devices, ensuring that the phone can handle everyday tasks without significant lag.
Targeting Developing Markets
Amazon will apparently launch the handset for around Rs 6,000, which is about $93 at the current exchange rate. This price point is particularly attractive for consumers in developing markets like India, where cost is a significant factor in purchasing decisions. By offering a smartphone at this price, Amazon is positioning itself to compete with other budget-friendly brands that dominate these markets, such as Xiaomi and Samsung’s lower-end models.
The choice of Android Nougat as the operating system is also noteworthy. While it is not the latest version of Android, Nougat still offers a range of features that are more than sufficient for most users. It includes multi-window support, enhanced notifications, and improved battery life through Doze on the Go. These features can significantly enhance the user experience, making the Amazon Ice smartphone a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers.
Moreover, the 13-megapixel camera is a strong selling point. In a market where camera quality can be a decisive factor, offering a high-resolution camera at a low price can attract a lot of attention. This could be particularly appealing to younger consumers who are active on social media and value good photo quality.
Amazon’s strategy to focus on developing markets is a smart move. These regions are experiencing rapid growth in smartphone adoption, and there is a large segment of the population that is looking for affordable yet reliable devices. By entering this market with a competitively priced smartphone, Amazon has the potential to capture a significant share.
In addition to hardware, Amazon could leverage its ecosystem of services to make the Ice smartphone even more attractive. For instance, integrating Amazon Prime services, including Prime Video and Prime Music, could add significant value for users. This would not only enhance the user experience but also drive more subscriptions to Amazon’s services, creating a win-win situation for the company.
As soon as we get some more details on the handset, we will let you guys know. The success of the Amazon Ice smartphone will depend on various factors, including its final specifications, pricing, and how well it is marketed. However, the initial signs are promising, and it will be interesting to see how this new venture unfolds.
Source NDTV
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
