Tumgik
#Reliance Jio
mundagenta · 4 months
Text
Knock knock, KaiOS.
The ephemeral taste of innovating nearly obsolete bricks might be reaching its inevitable demise.
Tumblr media
Nokia 8110 4G displayed in a kiosk at Mobile World Congress 2018. Image courtesy of Kārlis Dambrāns.
Despite the recent boom of feature phone sales over digital minimalism and dopamine detox trends, the future for KaiOS remains bleak as they fail to be consistent with their promises, thus miserably lagging against established giants in the market.
The good start
KaiOS is a partially open-source operating system developed by the Hong Kong-based company, KaiOS Technologies Inc. It was initially released in October 2017 and was forked from Boot 2 Gecko. Their name is from the Chinese for open – 开 (kāi) which “captures the idea of being inclusive.”
In just one year, they have overtaken Apple’s iOS as the second most popular operating system in India, with Android remaining on top, despite losing their 9% market share. In that same timeframe as well, they managed to sell around 450 million devices worldwide. Furthermore, their platform is compatible to WhatsApp, Twitter, YouTube, Google Maps, and Google Assistant.
To oversimplify things, KaiOS took the Boot 2 Gecko code (based from FirefoxOS) and modified it to run on hardware similar to that of feature phones and added the KaiOS Store. Other than that, they also implemented recent innovations that are becoming today’s standard, like 4G LTE and 5G, GPS, and Wi-Fi. By doing so, they effectively just created a separate phone segment, which some people call as the quasi-smartphones or smart feature phones.
KaiOS specifically chose the hardware present in their devices for an appealing approach to developing markets, like India and Pakistan, to bridge the digital divide and bring cheaper internet access. They removed the touch screen which they consider as the most costly part of the device, and replaced it with a cheaper T9 keypad input. Additionally, their devices only need 256MB to work and are also compatible with cost-efficient Spreadtrum chipsets.
What went wrong
By doing so, they effectively avoided the mistakes that Mozilla made. They chose a target audience first and offered them a product. They made an operating system out of the web but used that as a tool rather than the end goal, the latter being their approach to the digital divide. But not all products are perfect on their own, as their approach is a double-edged sword.
The T9 keypad meant that the apps had to be optimized to work on such inputs. Likewise, dissimilar to FirefoxOS, not all webpages can run on KaiOS devices due to hardware restraints. Such disadvantages make it an appealing short-term solution while their users save up for better entry-level Android devices.
Platform immaturity
The platform is still quite immature, despite five years since its initial launch. Some users claimed that their devices sometimes cannot receive calls, and crashes on related functions constantly. The battery also does not live up to its expectations and provides a ‘disappointing’ performance. Additionally, the calendar’s sync and date functionality is unstable, the alarm clock doesn’t ring from time to time, and the lack of note-taking, file browsing, multitasking, and wide audio format support. Besides, the platform lacked proper app quality control, bug reports, and feedback system, along with a slew of advertisements. Perhaps, the most lambasted functionality of the platform is the T9 input. Users characterized the input as slow and unreliable, thus ineffective for efficient user interface navigation. The predictive text input, which might sound good, is something they’d rather have disabled due to its restraints such as inaccurate suggestions and buggy input.
Some have mentioned that users may be over-estimating KaiOS and pitching it against smartphone platforms. Then on, we can’t deny that a platform still has to be stable and reliable, albeit hardware-restricted. Some went on to compare the system to its older counterparts such as Nokia’s Series 40, Microsoft’s Lumia, Vodafone’s MobiWire, and Blackberry’s Blackberry 10, which the users characterized as more ‘stable.’
Unfortunately, version 2.5.4 onwards faced a downward trend as certain apps were no longer maintained and supported, due to the decrease of development activity. For instance, the optimized Google and YouTube apps have been pulled out from the app store, around the same time as the update. In version 3, WhatsApp support has already been dropped and new app submissions to the store also plummeted. Google Assistant, the primary tool for users to voice type and issue commands (albeit stripped-down in comparison to Android), also dropped KaiOS support last June 30, 2021. Some users reached out to the company regarding this matter, to which they replied that they are developing an in-house voice assistant alternative. Until now, it is nowhere near worldwide coverage, given the limited devices it was shipped upon.
The company and its partners
Even more worse, the problem rests beyond that. The project development of has been consistent enough until the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the company’s blog statement “the growth was still not like how we achieved in the pre-COVID times, but these numbers and new partnerships are going up and in the right direction in this second year of the pandemic.”
In 2022, the project updates has since then plummeted. There weren’t any major announcements across all their social media platforms, even from the company website. Their Github repositories are no exception as well, as they still haven’t received any commits until now. Their only active repo is the gecko-b2g, which serves as the operating system base.
It is not implicit that their users are complaining about the bugs and speculating on the project’s downfall but it seems that they have no proper public relations and customer support as the company fails to actively respond to these messages.
Nokia
Nokia, or should we say, HMD Global has been a primary partner of KaiOS Technologies over the years. They manufactured the higher-end devices of the platform that were considerably the most popular in KaiOS’ lineup, such as the Nokia 6300 4G, Nokia 2780 Flip, and the Nokia 8110 4G.
Regardless, their approach is somehow vague as enthusiasts are confused over what their target audience is supposed to be, and what were they trying in the first place. Their approach started with the reboot of their classic devices, so it’s safe to assume that their target consumers are the ones who are nostalgic over their retro bricks. HMD, for a matter of fact, might have just been the worst example of a KaiOS partner.
Their devices are the most expensive ones of the platform, almost close to the entry-level Android Go smartphones. HMD Global has also been long criticized over the failure to deliver software updates from KaiOS to their devices, as they provide only about a year of support for these. The users also cannot help to complain over the significant bloatware present in such a limited hardware they provide.
Just recently, HMD Global took a step back from this approach and cherished their barebones Series 30 and Series 30+ platforms once again. Their last KaiOS device is the 2780 Flip from November 2022 and was then on followed by a series of Android Go and dumbphones from their C and 1xx series. In a reply to a user inquiry, they reportedly blamed KaiOS as the Google Assistant support for the platform was dropped.
Alcatel and TCL
Alcatel and TCL are also major partners of KaiOS. In fact, TCL Corporation is the largest shareholder of KaiOS Technologies. Both of them are popular for their Go Flip line. Despite the successes of Go Flip 1, 2, 3, and V, they didn’t get to experience the luxury of getting updated to the latest version of the OS, unlike the Go Flip 4. A user reached out to the company, to which they replied that they are still planning to serve these said updates to such devices, although there is still no update to talk of until now. 
Unfortunately, similar to HMD Global, they seem to be diverging away from the platform as recent releases from both manufacturers are focused on midrange to high-end Android devices, as well as the Tab series of TCL.
Jio
The Indian telecommunications company, Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited is the catalyst of KaiOS’ takeover against Apple in the country, all thanks to their aggressive marketing approach. They offered the competitively priced JioPhone for free to their users who are subscribed to their data plans.
Unluckily, even Jio is also straying away from KaiOS. There have been rumors that the JioPhone and the JioPhone 2 have been discontinued, as they are no longer sold. They last received the version 0258 update back on May 22, 2021, and clearly missed version 3.0 by a long shot. On June 24, 2021, Reliance Jio announced the JioPhone Next, a budget Android Go smartphone made in collaboration with Google. Recently this year, they partnered with Karbonn to release the Jio Bharat K1 Karbonn and V2 to provide access to UPI payments, Jio ecosystem, and cheaper 4G to the rural areas of India that remain untapped by recent advancements in technology.
What happened?
Fast forward to August 2023, users speculate that the project has already died out due to lack of activity and stagnation since the release of 3.0. Their company's social media platforms are inactive, except for the usual, seemingly AI-generated content every national holiday across countries. On the other hand, KaiOS Technologies partnered with the cybersecurity firm Trustonic to expand their device affordability efforts in Africa. There have also been infrequent new device releases for the platform, such as the AT&T Cingular Flex in February, Cricket Debut Flex in June, and Logan Technology’s Panita this August. Truth be told, I find this section rather short and lacking. Unfortunately, I could say the same for the company’s recent efforts. Nonetheless, I hope that things eventually get better. As users worldwide expected a reliable feature phone platform, all these issues contributed to a downward trend of interest for KaiOS. It seems that they might end up like FirefoxOS, failing to keep up and desolate in the past. Whether they wake up to innovate again, or continue dormant and inevitably die out is up for them to decide.
For now, one thing’s for sure, if they fail to address these issues, they’ll be no better than the obsolete bricks of the bygone era.
5 notes · View notes
algoartist · 1 year
Text
youtube
3 notes · View notes
technologynotify · 1 year
Text
5 notes · View notes
kajoltiwari963 · 17 hours
Text
Tumblr media
अब क्रिकेट, फिल्म सीरियल देखिये बिना किसी ad के
मात्र 29 रुपये के प्रतिमाह में.
#JioCinema पर
#JioCinemaPremium#Jio#entertainment#ambani#Reliance#JioCinemaSports#ipl2024#IPLmatch
0 notes
akashambanifc91 · 23 days
Text
रिलायंस जियो के #True5G के साथ भारत सबसे फास्ट 5जी नेटवर्क कनेक्टिविटी में #Top15 की लिस्ट में हुआ शामिल
0 notes
latestglobalnewswala · 2 months
Text
Anant-Radhika Wedding: A Glimpse into the Combined Net Worth
The recent Pre-wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant has captured the attention of the nation, not just for its extravagant celebrations but also for the combined wealth they bring together. As two prominent figures from affluent families, their union offers a fascinating insight into the immense riches that surround them.
Tumblr media
Anant Ambani: A Scion of the Ambani Empire
Anant Ambani, the youngest scion of the Ambani dynasty, inherits a legacy of unparalleled wealth. As the son of Mukesh Ambani, the Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries Limited, Anant is part of one of the wealthiest families in India. With interests spanning across sectors such as petrochemicals, telecommunications, and retail, the Ambani empire is a cornerstone of the Indian economy. Anant's personal net worth is estimated to be in the billions, although exact figures are closely guarded secrets within the Ambani family.
Radhika Merchant: Hailing from a Family of Wealth
Radhika Merchant, the bride, is no stranger to affluence herself. She comes from a family with substantial financial holdings, with her father, Viren Merchant, serving as the Vice Chairman of Encore Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. While specific details about her personal net worth are not readily available, her family's background suggests a significant level of wealth and influence.
The Combined Net Worth: An Intriguing Calculation
Estimating the combined net worth of Anant and Radhika involves considering the vast assets and holdings of both families. The Ambani family's wealth is primarily derived from Reliance Industries, which boasts a diverse portfolio of businesses and investments. Additionally, the family owns luxurious properties, including the opulent Antilia, which is often touted as one of the most expensive residences globally.
While Radhika's family may not command the same level of public attention as the Ambanis, their financial standing is undoubtedly substantial, given her father's prominent position in the healthcare industry.
Beyond Wealth: A Union of Families
It's essential to recognize that the wedding of Anant and Radhika is more than just a merger of fortunes. It symbolizes the coming together of two influential families and the celebration of love amidst opulence. While their combined wealth is undoubtedly impressive, it's crucial to remember that true happiness lies in the bonds of love and companionship rather than material riches.
Conclusion: Wealth, Love, and Union
In conclusion, the pre-wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant offers a glimpse into the combined net worth of two influential families. While their financial standing is undoubtedly significant, it's essential to view their union through the lens of love and companionship rather than merely through the prism of wealth. As they embark on this new chapter of their lives together, Anant and Radhika serve as a reminder that love knows no bounds, transcending the barriers of wealth and status.
0 notes
systembabaa · 2 months
Text
https://www.systembaba.com/tech-news/jio-bharatgpt-led-by-iit-bombay-challenges-chatgpt-launching-march-2024/
🔴Jio BharatGPT led by IIT Bombay, Challenges ChatGPT, Launching march 2024🔴
🔸The expected launch date of BharatGPT/Hanooman: As anticipated by Akash Ambani, is March 2024. This ambitious timeline fuels excitement and keeps SystemBaba.com closely monitoring the mission's progress. The launch of BharatGPT marks just the beginning of an exciting journey. Continuous learning, iteration, and integration of recent advancements in AI will ensure that it remains at the forefront of technological evolution🔸
0 notes
telecombyte · 2 months
Text
Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel Surge Ahead as Vodafone Idea Continues to Lose Subscribers in December 2023
In December 2023, the Indian telecom sector saw a notable shift as Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel gained wireless subscribers, while Vodafone Idea experienced a significant decline, losing 13.68 lakh subscribers. Reliance Jio added 39.94 lakh subscribers, surpassing its November figures, and Bharti Airtel recorded steady growth with 18.5 lakh additions. The combined mobile connection additions…
Tumblr media
View On WordPress
0 notes
rupali18 · 2 months
Text
मनोरंजन के लिए लाखों भारतीयों ने जियो सिनेमा को अपनाया
0 notes
talentpiee · 3 months
Text
Tumblr media
Billionaire Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries is reportedly set to acquire over a 50% stake in Disney India in preparation for the mega-merger between the two media entities in a few months.
According to a Reuters report, Reliance is expected to acquire a 51-54% stake in the company at a valuation of $3.5 billion.
It's worth mentioning that Bodhi Tree, a joint venture between James Murdoch and former Disney executive Uday Shankar, is expected to acquire a 9% stake, leaving Disney with a 40% stake in the merged entity.
#disney #mukeshambani #reliance #company #india #talentpie #marketing
0 notes
aghora · 4 months
Text
0 notes
daphne-alexander · 4 months
Text
Tumblr media
Her Latest Movie Will Be Out Soon. Check it out on above link.
1 note · View note
gadget-bridge · 6 months
Text
0 notes
kajoltiwari963 · 17 hours
Text
Tumblr media
जियो सिनेमा का अपने ग्राहकों के लिए खास तोहफा
मात्र 29 रुपए महीने के प्रीमियम प्लान पर Ad Free Unlimited Shows and Movies वो भी 4K क्वालिटी में, पूरे परिवार के लिए 89/month वाला प्लान भी
0 notes
dailybuzzbulletin · 6 months
Text
Reliance Jio turned out to be a miracle! Apple's condition is bad after seeing this device case.
0 notes
systembabaa · 2 months
Text
🔴Jio BharatGPT led by IIT Bombay, Challenges ChatGPT, Launching march 2024🔴
🔸The expected launch date of BharatGPT/Hanooman: As anticipated by Akash Ambani, is March 2024. This ambitious timeline fuels excitement and keeps SystemBaba.com closely monitoring the mission's progress. The launch of BharatGPT marks just the beginning of an exciting journey. Continuous learning, iteration, and integration of recent advancements in AI will ensure that it remains at the forefront of technological evolution🔸
https://www.systembaba.com/tech-news/jio-bharatgpt-led-by-iit-bombay-challenges-chatgpt-launching-march-2024/
0 notes