Shioupyn Shen, CEO of CloudMosa, is optimistic that feature phones with low-resolution displays could soon become a gateway for millions to access the internet in a new way. The company, known for its remote browser called Puffin, has developed a service known as Cloud Phone, aimed at helping individuals who cannot afford smartphones or lack reliable network coverage.
Remote browsers, like those offered by CloudMosa, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Cloudflare, function by connecting users to a browser operating in the cloud, thus alleviating the processing demand on local devices. This model enhances security by restricting actions such as copy and paste, uploads, and downloads, thereby preventing potential malware from reaching a user's device. Shen has been developing this concept since 2010, and in 2020, he began to explore the potential for utilizing remote browsing technology to allow feature phones to access the web.
CloudMosa’s Cloud Phone effectively hosts the browser and installs a proprietary thin client specifically designed to operate solely with the hosted browser on compatible feature phones. These phones come equipped with basic keypads for navigation, making browsing simple yet functional for users.
Shen, speaking to The Register, noted that until recently, 4G feature phones operated on the QQVGA standard, limiting resolutions to 160 x 120 pixels. The shift to QVGA, which offers 320 x 240 resolution, represents an improvement that could enhance the internet experience for feature phone users.
As of now, CloudMosa has secured partnerships with carriers in several countries, including Vietnam. Currently, one million users across 90 countries are utilising the Cloud Phone service, which accommodates around 40 different handset models, including devices from prominent Chinese manufacturers like HMD and Itel. Shen aims to engage further manufacturers and carriers, forecasting increased interest owing to the more favourable QVGA standard.
However, the journey ahead faces potential challenges. Shen acknowledged that handset manufacturers often do not prioritise feature phones, stating, “Devices sell out when they hit the channel," emphasising the need for a steady supply of devices to meet burgeoning consumer demand. He also pointed out concerns regarding the build quality of many budget 4G phones, noting issues such as faulty flash memory.
The success of Cloud Phone also hinges upon developers adopting the platform. CloudMosa provides tools based on HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, enabling carriers to create web apps tailored for local popular sites. Initially, CloudMosa has taken the initiative to develop web apps for expected popular sites, sometimes without prior approval from the publishers.
Shen is particularly interested in the Indian market, which he believes could be receptive to Cloud Phone. In this region, the telecom giant Jio has launched the JioBharat J1, a 4G feature phone boasting a QVGA screen, combined with an affordable data and streaming plan.
The emergence of Cloud Phone reflects broader trends in the tech industry where vendors are increasingly offering as-a-service options tailored for telecommunications companies. In countries such as Vietnam, a noticeable resurgence in modern 4G phones has followed the shutdown of 2G networks, creating a demand for upgraded devices.
As such, CloudMosa's Cloud Phone initiative presents a unique approach to reanimating the feature phone market, potentially bridging the digital divide for users in regions with limited access to advanced mobile technology.
Source: Noah Wire Services