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A cheap Android One phone could come to the US this year

Expect a $200 - $300 phone with two years of guaranteed software updates.

Karbonn Sparkle V Android One handset

The Android One program that aimed to standardize expectations for low-cost phones launched in 2014 and hasn't revolutionized the mobile arena so far. Still, Google is expected to make another run at the initiative, and a report by The Information claims that we can expect to see at least one approved device launch in the first half of 2017. The outlet isn't sure who will make the phone, but LG is said to be a potential partner. A major point of the One program is enabling Google to provide updates directly, and this device should guarantee two years of "timely" updates including security patches.

Previous Android One phones have been available overseas for as low as $100, so this looks like a price jump, but still at the lower-midrange phone price. According to The Information, more devices could follow the initial launch, so we'll have to see if prices come down. Whatever happens, it will be good to have a cheaper-than-Nexus Pixel option for people who prioritize access to the latest security patches and Android updates.