KaiOS Report
Executive Summary
KaiOS, originally emerging as a forked version of FirefoxOS, has evolved into a transformative mobile operating system. Its roots tie back to a partnership with Firefox, leading to the pre-loading of the Firefox browser on KaiOS-powered devices. Based in Hong Kong, the operating system's major shareholder is the renowned Chinese multinational TCL Corporation. Notably, Google recognized the potential and invested a substantial $22 million in KaiOS in June 2018, leveraging the platform to extend the reach of its services, including YouTube, Google Assistant, and Google Maps.
- An influential player in KaiOS's journey is Reliance Jio, an Indian telecom operator, which invested $7 million for a 16% stake in the company. Supported by the World Economic Forum, Reliance Jio's involvement underscores the strategic importance of KaiOS. Further enhancing its financial backing, Cathay Innovation injected $50 million into KaiOS in May 2019, solidifying its growth trajectory.
Companies & Services Overview
- KaiOS
- CEO: Sebastien Codeville
- Established: 2016
- Launched: 2017
- Employees:
- Annual Revenue:
- KaiOS is the successor to FirefoxOS, an open-source OS for smartphones, tablets, and smart TV’s. FirefoxOS was succeeded by a community-driven OS called Boot to Gecko (B2G), which eventually evolved into KaiOS.
- KaiOS is a lightweight mobile operating system that brings smartphone-like features to affordable devices, primarily targeting emerging markets. It offers a simplified interface, app store, internet connectivity, and partnerships with manufacturers like Nokia and Jio. With a focus on accessibility and essential apps, KaiOS has gained popularity in regions where low-cost smartphones are less accessible.
- KaiOS is the successor to FirefoxOS, an open-source OS for smartphones, tablets, and smart TV’s. FirefoxOS was succeeded by a community-driven OS called Boot to Gecko (B2G), which eventually evolved into KaiOS.
Audience
Notables
- KaiOS originally began as a forked version of FirefoxOS.
- FireFox & KaiOS partnered to have FireFox browser pre-loaded on devices.
- KaiOS is based in Hong Kong and its largest shareholder is the Chinse multinational TCL Corporation.
- Google invested $22 million in KaiOS June 2018.
- KaiOS gives Google more reach to Google Services like YouTube, Google Assistant, and Google Maps.
- Reliance Jio a Telecom operator out of India invested $7 million for a 16% stake in KaiOS.
- The World Economic Forum supports Reliance Jio.
- Cathay Innovation invested $50 million in KaiOS May 2019.
- Facebook & YouTube are pre-loaded on KaiOS.
- KaiOS has ventured into providing mobile phones in Africa.
- Google has mentioned their interest in expanding into Africa.
Questions
- What percentage of KaiOS does Google own?
Conclusion
KaiOS's network of partnerships with companies like Facebook, Twitter, Bullitt, Doro, HMD/Nokia, and others, in conjunction with its expansion into African markets, underscores its global impact. The convergence of KaiOS's growth trajectory with Google's interest in the African market highlights the synergy between investments, partnerships, and market expansion efforts.
- Regarding the ownership percentage that Google holds in KaiOS, Google's investment is notable, serving as a strategic move that contributes to KaiOS's development. It's important to note that KaiOS has established affiliations with companies beyond the American market and has limited presence in the United States thus lacking America first basic qualities.
Scope
Organization
Score
Some concerns or issues.
Created
Sept. 27, 2023, 8:31 p.m.
Updated
May 10, 2024, 7:31 p.m.
Availability
Public
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