Beyond suffering certain limitations in terms of apps and user interface, one of the big problems with Firefox OS is that we've always seen it running on very low-end smartphones. That trend is about to change thanks to the Fx0, a new smartphone made by LG and distributed by Japanese carrier KDDI. With a quad-core SoC and a transparent case, the Fx0 will seek to add new users to Mozilla's ranks.
Mozilla reported mid-month that Firefox OS has expanded its presence to a total of 28 countries. The compatible devices currently on sale number fifteen, and they represent a viable option in regions where budget is the first barrier to acquiring mobile technology. As with other operating systems in the past, Firefox OS still suffers from “growing pains”. The initial versions were harshly criticized, and the compatible hardware didn't help change that. From the outset, Mozilla made it clear that the goal of Firefox OS is not to compete against Android, iOS, and Windows Phone, but rather to offer a different, open alternative more focused on user needs. The software has a lot of work ahead, but that doesn't change the fact that Firefox OS could greatly benefit from more powerful hardware at its disposal.
Meet the Fx0
The first thing that catches our attention about this device is its design. The case is transparent, and its golden tone conveys a sense of elegance that simply doesn't exist in other Firefox OS phones. Its screen is 4.7 inches, and the specifications sit at the threshold of what could be called “high-end”. The SoC is a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 clocked at 1.2 GHz, RAM comes to 1.5 GB, internal storage is 16 GB, and there's a micro SD card slot (up to 64 GB). The cameras offer resolutions of 8 and 2.1 megapixels respectively, it has LTE support, and its battery can be replaced by the user without much hassle.
Launch and Price
Sales of the Fx0 smartphone with Firefox OS will take place in two phases. The first will be limited, starting tomorrow, and the second will establish general availability starting January 6 in Japan. I personally don't know the contracts KDDI offers its users, but the official price of 340 euros only makes sense if the Fx0 isn't subject to any kind of contract lock-in. Is the Japanese market the key to Firefox OS taking off? We'll find out soon.
