KaiOS

1.KaiOS: Smart Features for Feature Phones

KaiOS is a mobile operating system based on the remnants of Mozilla’s Firefox OS. It is designed to bring smartphone-like features (apps, 4G, Wi-Fi, GPS) to affordable feature phones with physical keypads. Its mission is to provide internet access to billions of people who still use basic phones.

2.Historical Background

• 2016: Firefox OS discontinued; KaiOS Technologies took over the project.
• 2017: First release of KaiOS (v1.0).
• 2018–2019: Google invested $22 million, WhatsApp and YouTube apps added.
• 2020s: KaiOS became the third-largest mobile OS globally, running on over 130 million devices in 100+ countries.
• 2025: Latest version is KaiOS 4.0, supporting modern apps and services.

3.Architecture and Features

• OS Family: Linux-based, derived from Firefox OS.
• Languages: HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, C++.
• App Store: KaiStore, offering WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, Google Maps, etc.
• Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, GPS, Bluetooth.
• Security: Sandboxed apps, frequent updates.
• Target Devices: Feature phones with limited hardware.

4.Representative Brands & Devices

• Nokia: Nokia 8110 4G (“Banana Phone”), Nokia 2720 Flip, Nokia 2780 Flip.
• Alcatel: Alcatel Go Flip series.
• Jio (India): JioPhone and JioPhone 2, hugely popular in India.
• Tecno: Tecno T901, first KaiOS device in Africa.
• Other OEMs: Doro, CAT, and smaller regional brands.

5.Comparison with Other Mobile OS