Developer community – KaiOS https://www.kaiostech.com the mobile OS for smart feature phone to enable tomorrow Tue, 21 Dec 2021 04:07:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.2 https://www.kaiostech.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/cropped-KaiOS-Icon-150x150.png Developer community – KaiOS https://www.kaiostech.com 32 32 Storms and KaiOS Technologies bring “Fruit Ninja” and “Jetpack Joyride” to 150 million KaiOS-enabled devices https://www.kaiostech.com/storms-and-kaios-technologies-bring-fruit-ninja-and-jetpack-joyride-to-150-million-kaios-enabled-devices/ https://www.kaiostech.com/storms-and-kaios-technologies-bring-fruit-ninja-and-jetpack-joyride-to-150-million-kaios-enabled-devices/#respond Thu, 26 Aug 2021 03:00:00 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=103070 From the beginning of this year, Storms has brought 40 game titles ranging from arcade, action, sports to puzzle and logic genres to the KaiOS ecosystem. 26 August 2021 – Singapore-based gaming startup Storms and KaiOS Technologies, maker of the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones, today announced their partnership to bring the...

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From the beginning of this year, Storms has brought 40 game titles ranging from arcade, action, sports to puzzle and logic genres to the KaiOS ecosystem.

26 August 2021 – Singapore-based gaming startup Storms and KaiOS Technologies, maker of the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones, today announced their partnership to bring the instantly playable version of mobile hit games – “Fruit Ninja” and “Jetpack Joyride” – to over 150 million KaiOS-powered smart feature phones globally, offering iconic and exciting gaming experience for new internet users for all ages.

Smart feature phones running on KaiOS are a hybrid of feature phones and smartphones  that require limited memory and are optimised for the non-touch interface. While these phones have a similar look and feel compared to 2G basic phones, they offer smartphone functionalities such as access to the internet, essential apps, and multimedia resources.

Since the first KaiOS-enabled device was introduced to the market in 2017, KaiOS has gained widespread popularity. More than 150 million devices have been shipped worldwide, with their unique mix of capability and affordability that breaks new ground for mobile devices. KaiOS is now the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones that brings mobile connectivity to underserved communities in over 150 countries. 

Sebastien Codeville, CEO of KaiOS Technologies, said, “Storms and KaiOS share the same mission, which is to empower all people – especially the underserved markets – with quality content. We have seen how Storms’ gaming content is being appreciated by KaiOS phone users. Over the last eight months, Storms’ games have been downloaded more than one million times via the KaiStore, with markets such as Pakistan, Nigeria and Tanzania experiencing the highest number of installs.”

Codeville added, “Seeing how arcade games such as Shoot and Fish are topping the list when it comes to game installs, we are thrilled to welcome the well-loved Fruit Ninja and Jetpack Joyride which fall under the same game category to our KaiOS ecosystem.”

Quality gaming experience on smart feature phones made possible
Fruit Ninja is the number one most downloaded iOS gaming app across 141 countries in the Casual category, while Jetpack Joyride was awarded for the Best Action/Arcade game, Best Overall Game on PocketGamer and Apple Design Award during WWDC 2012.

Storms owns the exclusive rights to convert “Fruit Ninja” and “Jetpack Joyride” into instant games’ format with original core gameplay and assets.

David Yin, CEO of Storms, commented, “While it’s exciting to see how the increasing range of devices and platforms on which games can be played is transforming the gaming industry, we need to be mindful that over three billion people are still left out of the digital revolution. KaiOS is an industry leader that has made the Internet more accessible through light, affordable technology, and we are delighted to partner with them in connecting over 150 million users with 40 game titles across different genres.”

The technology behind the games
Storms worked closely with Halfbrick Studios to specially design the two well-loved game titles for KaiOS devices, taking into account the classic keypad interface of smart feature phones and pared down the 3D graphics into 2D without compromising on user experience.

Designed to run on low-spec hardware, KaiOS is a light operating system leveraging open, web-based technologies such as HTML5 to create a rich, intuitive user experience and enable access to essential apps and other internet-based resources. In addition, the open architecture of KaiOS allows developers to easily create apps for KaiOS, reaching a previously untapped audience on smart feature phones. 

Fruit Ninja and Jetpack Joyride are now available for download from the KaiStore here and here in more than 150 countries with active KaiOS users.

About Storms Social Instant Games
Storms is a Singapore-based gaming startup invested in by Singtel, AIS, SK Telecom and EDB New Ventures, with a focus on strategic initiatives ranging from social instant-play games to hyper-casual mobile games development and publishing. 

Storms Social Instant Games is Storms’ key business line that is committed to making quality games more accessible to two billion users in the emerging markets through our social instant gaming page (web), Storms Instant Games mobile app and the region’s leading superapps.

For more information, visit https://storms.com/instant-gaming/ and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

About KaiOS Technologies  
KaiOS Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and services, and exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than 150 million devices shipped in over 150 countries. Kai’s mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones. KaiOS is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and many more.  

For more information about KaiOS, please visit www.kaiostech.com and www.twitter.com/kaiOSTech.

Press Contact:
Storms Media Contact
Margareta Anastasia
+65 8436 4978
anastasia@storms.com

KaiOS Media Contact
Eletta Leung
eletta.leung@kaiostech.com

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SIVOO streams content on KaiOS to bring affordable entertainment to emerging markets https://www.kaiostech.com/sivoo-streams-content-on-kaios/ https://www.kaiostech.com/sivoo-streams-content-on-kaios/#respond Wed, 18 Aug 2021 05:36:00 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=105160 PARIS, FRANCE and PHILADELPHIA, USA, August 18, 2021 /24-7PressRelease/ — KaiOS Technologies, the leading operating system for smart feature phones, and SIVOO, Inc., a global network of multicultural on-demand entertainment programming, announced today that SivooTV is available on KaiOS, providing video entertainment content to over 150 million KaiOS-enabled smart feature phones worldwide. Launching in the...

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PARIS, FRANCE and PHILADELPHIA, USA, August 18, 2021 /24-7PressRelease/ — KaiOS Technologies, the leading operating system for smart feature phones, and SIVOO, Inc., a global network of multicultural on-demand entertainment programming, announced today that SivooTV is available on KaiOS, providing video entertainment content to over 150 million KaiOS-enabled smart feature phones worldwide.

Launching in the United States and Nigeria in the first phase, the SivooTV app will then be rolled out globally via KaiStore. It offers a wide range of entertainment programming from third-party content providers. SIVOO is responsible for video content licensing, video encoding and transcoding as well as video streaming. News, Sports, Music, Lifestyle, and Kids’ video programming are some of the core content verticals with selected titles offered in 15 high-demand languages, including English, French, Spanish, Hindi, and Arabic. This is particularly essential to KaiOS users with limited literacy. There will also be premier content packages available for users to choose from on SivooTV.

“SIVOO is focused on the same objective as we are: to bring quality content and information to a wider audience segment, including those impacted by the digital divide globally,” said Mathieu Boyer, Senior Director, Ecosystem & Partnerships of KaiOS Technologies. “Here in KaiOS, we see a rising trend in video app usage on our platform, with a growing demand for streaming content in general and a higher mobile internet penetration. Our partnership comes right in time to address our users’ needs and desires with access to live video streams – in a wide range of languages and on affordable devices.”

“KaiOS represents one of the fastest-growing mobile platforms in the world with presence in more than 150 countries,” said Dr. Burhan Fatah, SIVOO’s Chief Executive Officer. “SIVOO is thrilled to be working with KaiOS to serve under-represented populations in emerging markets, allowing all KaiOS users to benefit from the affordable entertainment at their fingertips via the SivooTV network. The programming will be available in multiple local and high demand languages, making SivooTV a more attractive venue for viewers and advertisers alike.”

About KaiOS Technologies
KaiOS Technologies powers an ecosystem of affordable digital products and services, and exists to empower people around the world through technology. Its flagship product, KaiOS, is the leading mobile operating system for smart feature phones with more than 150 million devices shipped in over 150 countries. Kai’s mission is to open up new possibilities for individuals, organizations, and societies by bringing mobile connectivity to the billions of people without internet in emerging markets, as well as providing those in established markets with an alternative to smartphones. KaiOS is based on HTML5 and other open web technologies. Devices running on the platform require limited memory, while still offering a rich user experience through access to apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and many more.  

For more information about KaiOS, please visit www.kaiostech.com 

About SIVOO
Founded in 2000, SIVOO, Inc. operates the first Internet TV network of multicultural on-demand entertainment. It serves telcos and mobile operators across the world with thousands of hours of quality on-demand content that is delivered through to PCs, televisions, portable devices and mobile phones. Only SIVOO gives consumers the choice of watching ad-supported on-demand multicultural entertainment for free or without ads for a nominal fee. SIVOO’s proprietary system currently serves all major mobile platform as well OTT type of services.

SIVOO is headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

SIVOO is a trademark of SIVOO Holdings, Inc. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT
The statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements based on current expectations of future events that involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, risks associated with the inherent uncertainty of the timing and success of high technology hardware and software research; new product development; the market pricing of media content and related products and services; changes in consumer demand for Internet access to media content, commercialization of new products and services; Internet or network outages or failures; breaches of internet, network, or system security; changes in network infrastructure, transmission methods and broadband technologies; adoption of new broadband Internet access technologies; economic conditions including interest and currency exchange rate fluctuations; changes in generally accepted accounting principles; the impact of competitive products or services; trade buying patterns; wars or terrorist acts; product liability and other types of lawsuits; the impact of legislation and regulatory compliance; and patent, licensing, and other intellectual property risks and uncertainties. Actual results may vary materially from the forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. When used in this release and documents referenced, the words “believes,” “expects,” “may,” “should,” “seeks,” or “anticipates,” and similar expressions as they relate to SIVOO or its management are intended to identify such forward- looking statements.

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Taleemabad app now available on KaiOS https://www.kaiostech.com/taleemabad-app-now-available-on-kaios/ https://www.kaiostech.com/taleemabad-app-now-available-on-kaios/#respond Mon, 05 Jul 2021 03:49:35 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=102809 Orenda, a company that aims to provide education to children all over Pakistan, has now launched its Taleemabad Learning App on KaiOS. First developed in February 2017 for Android devices, the Taleemabad Learning App features animated content, assessments and games that cover the Pakistani National Curriculum for Grades Nursery until Grade 6.  A huge problem...

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Orenda, a company that aims to provide education to children all over Pakistan, has now launched its Taleemabad Learning App on KaiOS.

First developed in February 2017 for Android devices, the Taleemabad Learning App features animated content, assessments and games that cover the Pakistani National Curriculum for Grades Nursery until Grade 6.  A huge problem in Pakistani children is the issue of learning poverty, where children who are enrolled in schools aren’t learning at their level. The Taleemabad Learning App through adaptive learning gauges the current performance level and then adjusts the student accordingly. 

All these exciting features are now available for KaiOS where they can be accessed by an even greater audience.

The goal

Girls in rural areas and children from the lowest-income households have been most likely to go without education in Pakistan. Large numbers of schools have been regularly closed because of either COVID or poor teaching facilities with high rates of teacher absenteeism. To tackle this range of barriers affecting children’s access to education, Taleemabad and KaiOS have partnered together to bring forth an affordable solution for the individuals in the marginalized under-resourced communities all over the nation.

The partnership has allowed students from underprivileged communities with no or limited access to education to engage in smaller chunks of learning and tackle the basics of numeracy and literacy before committing to more advanced learning. 

The technology

Taleembad’s pioneering work is to ensure that everyone – regardless of whether you’re near or far from any major city – can access learning opportunities when it matters most: from early childhood to fifth grade.

With this in mind, Taleemabad is leveraging emerging technologies to effectively adapt users’ preferences to increase their access to education and extend its reach beyond classroom walls.  It has empowered online learning all over Pakistan and provided students with the freedom to learn from the comforts of their homes. 

The app’s user-friendly experience has helped students in the transition and enter an unfamiliar online learning educational environment – new to many all over the country.

Why KaiOS?

In Pakistan, the smartphone penetration rate was forecasted at 51% for 2020, five times higher than in 2014 – an assumption based on the consistent decline in mobile device prices and increasing shipment numbers of smartphones across developing countries like Pakistan. Nevertheless, smartphone penetration is still low in many small cities and villages in the country. 

Designed to run on low-spec hardware, KaiOS is a light operating system leveraging open, web-based technologies such as HTML5 to create a rich, intuitive user experience and enable access to essential apps and other internet-based resources. These highly affordable KaiOS-enabled devices are being used by a considerable portion of the population in Pakistan. They have also become quite popular in many places with little to no smartphone access.

Available for download in the KaiStore, the Taleemabad app will provide access to meaningful education all over the nation. Orenda Project aims to be scaled up by developing it into a KaiOS-compatible program while offering more diverse educational opportunities for those living outside major cities.

Sharing a similar, purposeful mission to use technology to close the digital divide, Orenda and KaiOS continue to work closely together to bridge the educational gap by creating access to free, engaging, high-quality digital content to the masses of many deserving children.

Acknowledgment

GSMA Innovation Fund is currently funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and supported by GSMA and its members.

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KaiOS launches new version of Life app in 30 countries https://www.kaiostech.com/kaios-launches-new-version-of-life-app-in-30-countries/ https://www.kaiostech.com/kaios-launches-new-version-of-life-app-in-30-countries/#respond Wed, 16 Jun 2021 05:03:44 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=102305 The second version of our Life app has daily content updates, in-app web browsing, and the ability to save and search posts. We’ve made these improvements based on feedback we received from tens of thousands of users of Life v1 and are now rolling out version two in 30* countries. The new version of Life...

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The second version of our Life app has daily content updates, in-app web browsing, and the ability to save and search posts. We’ve made these improvements based on feedback we received from tens of thousands of users of Life v1 and are now rolling out version two in 30* countries.

The new version of Life app can reach millions of new users across Africa, Europe, North America, Asia, Latin America and beyond

With Life, first-time internet users in emerging markets can learn about the world through tips, advice, and information on these core topics:

  • Upskilling
  • Kids Learning
  • Women Empowerment
  • Health
  • Digital Literacy
  • Agriculture
  • COVID-19

Content for these topics comes from selected companies and non-profit organizations such as Audiopedia, Worldreader, Justdiggit, Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, Girl Effect, wikiHow, Mosabi, GSMA, and many more! Thanks to these partnerships, the original Life app has steadily been in the top 5 apps on the KaiStore. In this new version, we’re delighted to welcome even more partners to join us, providing engaging and easy-to-follow content in various local languages to accommodate different needs and literacy levels.

Feature Details

The second version of Life brings these four new features.

  • Dynamic feed with daily new content: We’ve changed how we display information in the app to resemble KaiNews, our news app. This approach with daily updates keeps readers engaged and ensures all content is topical and relevant at all times.
  • In-app web browsing and multimedia support: With in-app web browsing, Life users enjoy a seamless experience when viewing our partners’ content. The newly integrated video and audio player also ensures uninterrupted browsing.
  • Search and save posts: Life v2 includes a search function based on keywords so that users can quickly find the topics they want to learn about. You can now also save content for later reference.
  • Regionalized content: Partners can tailor their content per region to address local needs, cultural differences, and other localization requirements.

How to download the new version of Life?

It is available on KaiOS devices in 30 countries with:

  • Both 256 and 512MB RAM
  • The latest Life version 3.1.0

Partnerships

We believe in enabling communities around the world through mobile technology with trusted, life-changing resources. If you’d like to help us provide content to Life users, please fill out this form to suggest content, and we’ll be in touch shortly.

*Check the countries/regions with Life app supported: https://www.kaiostech.com/explore/life-app/

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What’s in Store? Four more KaiStore improvements https://www.kaiostech.com/whats-in-store-four-more-kaistore-improvements/ https://www.kaiostech.com/whats-in-store-four-more-kaistore-improvements/#comments Wed, 10 Mar 2021 06:45:00 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=97579 The KaiStore team keeps up the momentum with another set of updates that make it easier to find the apps you’re looking for and enhance the UX experience as a whole.  An early verdict on discussion website Reddit:  “New KaiStore update is sick!“.  Here’s what’s new.  Creative animations to bridge loading time  Loading doesn’t have to be boring! To keep you engaged before...

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The KaiStore team keeps up the momentum with another set of updates that make it easier to find the apps you’re looking for and enhance the UX experience as a whole. 

An early verdict on discussion website Reddit:  “New KaiStore update is sick!“.  Here’s what’s new. 

Creative animations to bridge loading time 

Loading doesn’t have to be boring! To keep you engaged before the content is fully loaded, we’ve created various loading animations to make them visually intrigued while waiting. There’re also new animations when scrolling down the app list and across categories, giving you a more interactive and delightful user interface. These new animations are a useful supplement to content and provide meaning to interactions that ultimately improve usability.   

Seeing is believing with app screenshots 

Developers can now add screenshots to their apps in the KaiStore. When you visit an app’s information page, you’ll be able to see what the experience looks like before pressing download. 

We’ve also darkened the banner under the app title and description. With the added contrast, it’s now easier to read this essential information.  

Get results for every search 

Despite our 800+ apps in the KaiStore, sometimes a search came up empty. Not anymore.  

You now get suggestions related to your search if there are no results. This creates another opportunity for you to discover all the great content available in the KaiStore. 

Discover even more with You May Also Like 

The recently launched You May Also Like page is already one of the most popular destinations of the KaiStore. To introduce you to even more great content, developers can now promote their apps using a new advertising slot* in this section of the KaiStore. 

Go check out these updates for yourself in the KaiStore right now. They’re available on most KaiOS-enabled devices worldwide. 

*This feature is now in closed beta and will be available to all soon. Please stay tuned!

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2020’s most popular KaiOS apps https://www.kaiostech.com/2020-most-popular-kaios-apps/ https://www.kaiostech.com/2020-most-popular-kaios-apps/#comments Tue, 05 Jan 2021 06:52:19 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=91676 Lots happened in the KaiStore in 2020. We added new features and grew the collection of apps to more than 800, thanks to our developer community and the Ecosystem team’s tireless efforts. Now that the year is officially behind us, we’ve compiled three app top 5 lists in the following categories for you: Most installed...

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Lots happened in the KaiStore in 2020. We added new features and grew the collection of apps to more than 800, thanks to our developer community and the Ecosystem team’s tireless efforts.

Now that the year is officially behind us, we’ve compiled three app top 5 lists in the following categories for you:

  • Most installed apps
  • Most installed games
  • Staff picks

Most installed apps 📈

To determine the most installed apps on KaiOS devices in 2020, we’ve looked at all the install data from devices outside of India (as those run their own JioStore). We’ve also excluded apps preloaded on most phones, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube, and the Google apps. Lastly, the list doesn’t include games, as we’ve given those their own category (see next section).

Here are the top 5 of most installed apps on KaiOs smart feature phones in 2020.

Xender

Developer: Xender

This cross-platform file transfer sharing app takes the top spot for downloads in 2020. Xender’s top-ranking shows just how popular file-sharing is in emerging markets, especially music and video files. Its compatibility between KaiOS smart feature phones and Android smartphones doesn’t hurt either.

UC Browser

Developer: Alibaba

This browser provides a fast, all-in-one web experience and is a long-time favorite in emerging markets like India. Available on the KaiStore since October 2019, it provides a great way to explore the internet on a smart feature phone.

Ringtones Free

Developer: Warren Miller

Since the dawn of mobile phones, people have loved to personalize their devices with ringtones. Smart feature phone users are no different, and Ringtones Free by indie developer Warren Miller is proof with an impressive third ranking in the 2020 installs.

Tweetfit

Developer: Zhang Qichuan

To ensure a fast and responsive Twitter experience on KaiOS, indie developer Zhang Qichuan created Tweetfit. Using the public Twitter API, he has created an excellent tweeting experience for everyone on KaiOS phones, and Tweeps are clearly loving it.

PDF Reader

Developer: Bartlomiej Tadych

We close the top 5 with a third indie developer. Bartlomiej Tadych realized many people need to open a PDF on their phones regularly. With his PDF Reader app, he optimized this experience for the smaller screens of smart feature phones, ensuring people can read their PDFs on KaiOS.

Most installed games 🎮

With 500+ games available in the KaiStore, we figured they deserved their own category. Here we see lots of innovation and exciting things happening, with both indie developers and a large studio present on the list.

Here are the top 5 of most installed games on KaiOS smart feature phones in 2020.

Drift Rally

Developer: Blacksheep Games

Car racing is what people love to do on their smart feature phones. In this fun and fast-paced game, the middle 5 button is your best friend. Use it to swap lanes and survive the incoming enemy cars driving right at you. Otherwise… a car crash and game over!

Danger Dash

Developer: Gameloft

This runner game is the runner-up in our most installed games of 2020 category. Use D-Pad Up/Left/Right/Down or press 2/4/6/8 to make your character jump and dash through the jungle. Survive scores of obstacles in a lost city, and hold on for dear life when you reach the mysterious temple…

123 Fruit Smash

Developer: Blacksheep Games 

ANOTHER top three entry for developer Blacksheep Games! Besides Drift Rally at number one, smashing and slicing watermelons has brought their title 123 Fruit Smash the third position in this year’s ranking. In this game, you must smash the green watermelons and avoid hitting the red ones, all within the designated time limit. Do you have the ninja skills to win this one?

3D Football Pong Deluxe

Developer: Alex Marc

Alex Marc brings us 3D Football Pong Deluxe, which brings him this fourth place in our ranking. You’re up against artificial intelligence and have to put in as many goals as you can. How high can you get your score?

Siberian Strike

Developer: Gameloft

We’re not done with double entries in this year’s ranking. Gameloft also takes home another position, closing the top 5 with Siberian Strike. It’s a retro-style, aerial combat game in which you face off against challenging bosses in massive aircraft. Exciting combat and cool upgrades to make your planes stronger ensure hours and hours of fun well beyond 2020.

Staff picks 🏅

Popularity is only one way to measure. Fewer downloads don’t necessarily mean an app is not great. Naturally, our team sees and tries all the apps that come in; here are some of our favorites from 2020.

Magic Photo

Developer: Nubilion
Category: Entertainment

A complete photo editor with all the tools you need, like color adjustments, cropping, stickers, and filters. You can save the pictures and share them with friends and family. The app runs smoothly on all KaiOS devices, including those with 256MB memory.

PodLP

Developer: PodLP
Category: Social

The first podcast app designed and developed specifically for KaiOS. We especially like that you can listen online as well as offline. The developer also deserves a special shoutout for continuously improving and updating the app and putting in extra effort to support multiple languages.

WikiHow

Developer: WikiHow
Category: Books & Reference, Education

An excellent and practical guide on almost anything, providing valuable knowledge to all people with KaiOS phones. We also partnered with the WikiHow team to create dedicated content for first-time internet users on how to use KaiOS smart feature phones.

BeSafe

Developer: Valeriy Skachko
Category: Health, Education

The first app released on the KaiStore in March to provide COVID information to KaiOS users. The app is available in eight languages and provides the latest info and data from trusted health organizations.

Klondike Solitaire

Developer: Taara Games
Category: Games

A recently released game that’s clocking in an extraordinary amount of downloads. If the title was released a bit earlier in the year, we’re quite sure this one would have been in the games top 5. We’re not surprised, though, as developer X has created a portfolio of quality apps, with more than two 2 million game plays across all his titles in less than a year.

On to 2021

That’s it for 2020’s most popular apps and staff picks. We can’t wait to see what 2021 will bring. In the meantime, have a look at all the available KaiOS devices here in case you don’t have a smart feature phone yet. And if you got inspired and want to get yourself on the 2021 list, make sure to head over to this blog post: Learn to develop for the KaiOS operating system with these resources.

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KaiStore upgrades: Recommendations and expanded app descriptions https://www.kaiostech.com/kaistore-upgrades/ https://www.kaiostech.com/kaistore-upgrades/#respond Tue, 15 Dec 2020 09:44:00 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=91491 With over 700 apps and counting, it’s becoming harder to keep up with all the great content available on a KaiOS-enabled phone. We already launched App Search to make finding content in the KaiStore easier. Now, we’re adding an intelligent app recommendation feature to ensure our users never miss a great app, and developers get...

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With over 700 apps and counting, it’s becoming harder to keep up with all the great content available on a KaiOS-enabled phone. We already launched App Search to make finding content in the KaiStore easier. Now, we’re adding an intelligent app recommendation feature to ensure our users never miss a great app, and developers get rewarded for their hard work with more installs.

How does it work?
When someone browses through the KaiStore on their smart feature phone, a set of three recommended apps will appear below the app description. Whether a user looks at a specific app or checks search results, a new section – titled “You May Also Like” – shows up at the bottom of the page. The only exception is the ad-driven app view, where we display no recommendations.

An intelligent recommendation engine looks at browsing and usage patterns across our entire app ecosystem to select three “You Might Also Like” apps. From this data, plus the characteristics of the current app someone is looking at (e.g., category, popularity), three recommendations show up at the bottom of the page.

Apps that offer high-quality content and great user experiences will be placed more frequently within the “You May Also Like” recommendations, rewarding developers for producing great work.

Expanded app descriptions

Besides app recommendations, we’ve also added more details to the app descriptions:

We’re seeing reputable KaiOS app developers gaining recognition and trust from KaiOS users. For this reason, the publisher name helps people identify apps from their favorite developers.

App size shows how much impact the download of the app will have on someone’s data plan. It’s never a lot – since all KaiOS apps are incredibly light – but it’s useful information nevertheless.

We believe these additions will build further trust in our ecosystem and help remove any remaining hesitation a user might have before downloading an app. Together with our new app recommendations, KaiOS users can find more great apps and feel confident to download them!

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KaiStore gets major update https://www.kaiostech.com/kaistore-gets-major-update/ https://www.kaiostech.com/kaistore-gets-major-update/#comments Fri, 16 Oct 2020 03:00:52 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=86324 We’re excited to announce two new KaiStore features: search and automatic updates. Search With the growing number of apps in the KaiStore—over 700!—we thought it was time to implement a search feature. For users, the search feature makes finding apps easier. Now, instead of endlessly browsing for what they’re looking for, all they need to...

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We’re excited to announce two new KaiStore features: search and automatic updates.

Search

With the growing number of apps in the KaiStore—over 700!—we thought it was time to implement a search feature.

For users, the search feature makes finding apps easier. Now, instead of endlessly browsing for what they’re looking for, all they need to do is enter a keyword in the search field.

The search function then filters across app names, categories, publishers, and descriptions to display best-matching results. This works in all languages and accommodates partial keywords and even misspellings.

For developers, the new search feature improves app discoverability, especially for apps that support multiple languages and have clear and accurate descriptions.

Automatic Updates

With the latest release, the KaiStore is automatically updated by default. Users will no longer see notifications about updating to newer versions.

For the KaiOS developer team, not having to support older versions of the KaiOS app store means more time for building even more exciting features.

What’s Next

The new KaiStore is currently being tested in select countries. We’ll be rolling out the update globally soon.

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Developer spotlight: Yuuki Yamashita, Mifuku Works https://www.kaiostech.com/developer-spotlight-yuuki-yamashita-mifuku-works/ https://www.kaiostech.com/developer-spotlight-yuuki-yamashita-mifuku-works/#respond Tue, 29 Sep 2020 03:00:49 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=85270 This month, we chat with KaiOS’s first and only indie developer from Japan. Yuuki Yamashita is 36 years old and lives in the beautiful city of Fukuoka, famous for its ancient temples—such as the Tōchō-ji, home to a 10-meter wooden Buddha—and its modern shopping malls.  In true Fukuoka style, Yuuki owns both an ultra-modern iPhone...

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This month, we chat with KaiOS’s first and only indie developer from Japan. Yuuki Yamashita is 36 years old and lives in the beautiful city of Fukuoka, famous for its ancient temples—such as the Tōchō-ji, home to a 10-meter wooden Buddha—and its modern shopping malls. 

In true Fukuoka style, Yuuki owns both an ultra-modern iPhone and a minimalist KaiOS phone. A full-time engineer, he builds KaiOS apps in his free time. He’s the creator behind Dungeon Slime and Multi Counter. Learn more about Yuuki below.

How does it feel to be the first KaiOS indie developer in Japan?

I’m proud to be the first KaiOS indie developer in Japan. I hope that the number of Japanese KaiOS developers will increase in the future. KaiOS is not so well known in Japan. If KaiOS devices start being sold here, the number of developers will increase.

How did you discover KaiOS?

I learned about KaiOS devices and how to develop KaiOS apps from overseas sites.

What inspired you to build a KaiOS app?

I had previously developed an app for Firefox OS. I started developing an app for KaiOS with that experience. Also, since there are no KaiOS app developers around me, I decided to be the first.

What challenges did you face getting started?

I had a hard time getting a KaiOS device. They are not sold in Japan, so I used eBay.

What’s your favorite part about developing KaiOS apps?

I like that KaiOS apps can be developed with HTML, CSS, and Javascript.

Are there KaiOS apps that you enjoy? Which ones?

AirshipCombat3D. I’m amazed that it’s possible to create 3D games on KaiOS!


Visit Yuuki’s website: http://mikufuworks.com/

Connect with him on Twitter: @mikufuworks_y_k

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App monetization on KaiOS https://www.kaiostech.com/app-monetization-kaios/ https://www.kaiostech.com/app-monetization-kaios/#respond Thu, 17 Sep 2020 03:00:54 +0000 https://www.kaiostech.com/?p=85113 App monetization starts with building engaging, high-quality apps with optimal user experiences. But it doesn’t stop there. The path to monetization also involves: Increasing app visibility Increasing app engagement and user retention Using ads to generate revenue In this guide, we explore each of these strategies in detail.  Increasing app visibility Follow these steps to...

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App monetization starts with building engaging, high-quality apps with optimal user experiences. But it doesn’t stop there. The path to monetization also involves:

  • Increasing app visibility
  • Increasing app engagement and user retention
  • Using ads to generate revenue

In this guide, we explore each of these strategies in detail. 


Increasing app visibility

Follow these steps to improve your KaiOS app’s discoverability.

1. Choose a descriptive name

Choose a unique name under 20 characters. We recommend descriptive names that hint at the purpose of your app.

2. Invest in eye-catching visuals

Choose an icon and a banner that grab people’s attention and communicate what your app is about. Make sure your visuals are recognizable in small screens.

3. Add a helpful subtitle

Use the subtitle to explain what users can expect from your app. Highlight the main features and/or typical uses. Keep it under 40 characters.

4. Add an informative description

Provide the details users need to decide if your app is right for them. Keep your description under 200 characters.

5. Localize your app

Tailor the content of your app for users around the world. To learn more about localizing your app, see a sample app and recommended resources on Github.

Note: You may want to test different icons, banners, subtitles, and descriptions to discover what works best. We recommend testing one component at a time for at least a week. 

Increasing app engagement and user retention

Follow these steps to encourage repeat visits to your app.

1. Create optimal input and navigation methods

The way users interact with your app influences retention. KaiOS supports virtual cursors, but D-pad navigation tends to provide a better user experience.

2. Give users something to work towards

Add levels or missions for users to unlock. This helps keep them engaged.

3. Leaderboards

Add a global leaderboard to give users an opportunity to compete for higher scores.

4. Reward users

Give users rewards for accomplishing tasks. Rewards can be hints or extra lives. See “rewarded ads” below.

Using ads to generate revenue

App monetization in KaiOS comes from ad displays. There are two types of ads: interstitial (also known as full-screen ads) and responsive (also known as banner ads). 

1. Interstitial ads

Interstitial ads are full-screen banners that appear in interstices (breaks and transitions).

Ads in full screen and banner size.

2. Responsive ads

Responsive ads appear at the top or at the bottom of the screen. You can choose to display a single banner ad for a set duration or have ads change every 20 seconds; you can also choose their placement on the screen.

Which one is best for your app? That depends on what your app does and how users interact with it. 

Responsive ads:

  • Don’t work for apps where gameplay interferes with users’ ability to interact with them; for example, endless runner games such as Birdy and Guardians
  • Do work for apps that use an emulated cursor for navigation, as well as in to-do list apps and apps with newsfeeds (when displayed in lists.)

Full-screen ads:

  • Do work for games, when shown at the moment the user completes a level.

Make ads less disruptive:

  • Use as few ad slots as possible. If possible, show all of the ads in one slot.
  • Avoid overwhelming users. Show only one type of ad at a time.
  • Don’t ruin the game. In games, make sure the session pauses each time a full-screen ad appears. Hide banners during gameplay to give users more screen space.
  • Avoid displaying full-screen ads in real-time. Instead, pre-load them so even users on low-speed connections can view them at once.
  • Reward ad viewers. Offer hints and extra lives in exchange for ad views.

Increase your chances of monetization:

1. Integrate rewarded ads

When it comes to generating revenue from ads, click-through rates (CTRs) matter more than impressions. Rewarded ads—ads that users can interact with in exchange for in-app rewards—are a proven strategy for improving CTRs.

Reward users for viewing ads

2. Set up an app-ads.txt file

Creating an app-ads.txt file makes information about your app available to advertisers, and makes them more willing to partner with you. Learn how to set up an app-ads.txt file.

Start monetizing your apps

Apps that generate revenue have fully-functioning features and provide optimal user experiences.

Additionally, they are “packaged” in a way that helps increase their relevance and visibility among other apps.

Finally, they integrate ads in non-intrusive ways that drive click-through.

Visit KaiAds to start monetizing your KaiOS apps.

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