dailytech.com
HumanIPO broke the news of the YOLO smartphone two weeks ago. Intel has been developing its own platform to host low-cost smartphone operable with the Android platform.
The new platform includes Intel Atom features aimed at emerging smartphone markets. This new platform, named Intel Inside, was unveiled during the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this month in Las Vegas, United States.
“We’re redefining what cost-conscious Kenyans can expect from a smartphone,” said Peter Arina, general manager, Safaricom’s consumer business unit, adding that the Intel-based Yolo smartphone strikes a unique balance between price and performance.
He said: “It’s great news that Kenya will be the launch country in Africa for smartphones with Intel Inside and we expect a great reception from our customers.”
The YOLO device features a 3.5-inch touchscreen display for crisp text and images, support for FM radio and an expandable memory slot for greater flexibility, and HSPA+ modem support with Intel’s XMM 6265 modem for global roaming. It also has McAfee mobile security software to protect the device and also offer backup and restore functions.
“We are delighted to partner with Safaricom in bringing the first smartphone with Intel Inside to Kenyan consumers,” said Aysegul Ildeniz, Regional Intel Director for the Middle East, Turkey and Africa Region.
“The new handset extends the benefits of Intel technology to more smartphone users around the world and we believe that Kenyan consumers will welcome the increased functionality and overall value of the device. We look forward to our continued cooperation with Safaricom.”
Intel made an Asian splash with their low-cost smartphone XOLO, which became a hit in India after launching in April 2012.
The YOLO will be launched later in other African countries. In Kenya it will cost KSh10,999 (approximately US$125) and will come with a 500MB offer on purchase from all Safaricom shops.
