The specs are unlikely to excite smartphone fans, but the rumoured Samsung Android Go phone will be one of the more intriguing phones to arrive this year.
Now the device, said to be running the lightweight version of Google’s mobile operating system, has moved a step closer to reality. It appears the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has certified the phone for sale in the United States.
Unfortunately, the filing doesn’t give anything away, beyond the model numbers SM-J260G, SM-J260G/DS, SM-J260Y, and SM-J260Y/DS, which have been previously rumoured for the phone (via UberGizmo).
However, this does seem to confirm Samsung is planning to launch the device in western territories like the US and Europe. Reportedly, Samsung has been testing the handset in “dozens” of markets around the world, including the UK, as it “tests the waters” for a release.
Related: What is Android Go?
Recent speculation has tipped the phone to have a 5-inch Super AMOLED screen, a 1.4GHz quad cor Exynos 7570 processor, 1GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage and a 2600mAh battery. In terms of cameras, the leak suggests it would be an 8MP affair on the rear, and 5MP on the front. The device is expected to ride the Android 8.1 Oreo version of the Go OS.
Android Go was announced back at MWC 2018 back in February. It comes loaded with lightweight Google apps like YouTube and Chrome. There’s also a dedicated version of the Play Store where developers can create optimised versions of their apps.
As well as providing access to Google’s prime tools for those in developing nations, the operating system has also been spied for users seeking affordable weekend phones.
Would you consider an Android Go phone as a secondary, back-up phone? Have you used the OS before? Share your thoughts with us @TrustedReviews on Twitter
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
