Samsung just unveiled the Z1, a smartphone that is powered by the lightweight Tizen operating system and is meant to appeal to millions of Indian customers. You see, the Samsung Z1 is the first Tizen-powered smartphone for India.

“The smartphone market in India is rapidly evolving, with many consumers using their device as their screen of choice for content including videos, television programs and video games, as well as a range of apps,” said Mr. Hyun Chil Hong, President and CEO, Samsung India Electronics, “We have customized the Samsung Z1 to meet these unique, entertainment-focused needs of local Indian consumers for a personal and reliable mobile experience."

Samsung Z1 – Main Specs

• Display, dimensions, weight – 4” WVGA PLS display; 120.4 x 63.2 x 9.7 mm, 112g.
• Processor – 1.2GHz dual-core processor.
• Memory and storage – 768 MB RAM; 4GB Internal memory; micro SD slot up to 64GB.
• Camera & camera features – 3.1MP rear camera, VGA front camera; Auto Face Detected feature, Dream Shot.
• Network and connectivity – GSM, HSDPA; WiFI, Bluetooth, USB, GPS.
• Sensors – accelerometer.
• Battery – 1500 mAh battery that offers 7 hours of non-stop videos and 8 hours of talk time.
• Colors – white, black and wine red.

Samsung Z1 – Main Features

• Ultra Power Saving Mode – shuts down unnecessary apps to drastically minimize battery use.
• Private Mode – a convenient way to hide files from prying eyes.
• SOS – press the power button 4 times and a “Help” message will be sent out to your primary contacts. The message includes location info.
• Antivirus – the Z1 provides built-in antivirus protection. It automatically checks for viruses when you install an app, check your email, or get a text message (SMS).
• Joy Box – a free entertainment package that provides access to music, TV, and movies.
• Club Samsung – provides free access to premium content.
• Hungama.com – thanks to a partnership with Hungama.com, you have access to over 2 million Bollywood and English songs for free for 3 months.
• nexGTv and Box TV – access over 7000 Bollywood and Hollywood movies for free for 3 months.
• Operating System – lightweight Tizen OS that offers fast boot times and quick access to apps.

The Samsung Z1 goes on sale in India on January 14, 2015.

The Samsung Z1 smartphone INR 5,700 (about $90).

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I have to remind you that the Samsung Z is the first Samsung smartphone to be powered by the Tizen mobile operating system.

I also have to remind you that Samsung recently unveiled several smartphones in India: the Galaxy A3, the Galaxy A5, the Galaxy E5, and the Galaxy E7.

And I have to point out that Google made Flight Search available in India. Check out the Google India blog for more details.