As a way of increasing the popularity of its operating system Tizen, Samsung has launched a second Tizen-powered smartphone, stating that the Z3 will go on sale in India on Oct. 21 for 8,490 Indian rupees ($130.59).
Although this is more expensive than the 5,700 rupees launch price for its predecessor, the Z1, the new phone offers better hardware including a faster processor, a higher quality screen and improved cameras.
Industry watchers believe that Samsung is trying to reduce its dependence on Google whose Android operating system powers Samsung’s flagship Galaxy smartphones. The company has also launched other products this year powered by Tizen, including the Gear S2 smartwatch and premium televisions.
Reuters reported in June that Samsung plans to launch more handsets running on Tizen this year. Samsung needs to attract more smartphone users to the operating system in order to gain more third-party developer support, analysts say.
The Z3’s low price could attract buyers in markets like India, where smartphone penetration is still relatively low. Researcher Counterpoint said the predecessor Z1 smartphone was Samsung’s best-selling smartphone in India during the second quarter, thanks in part to its low price.
