Mobile 3G data access in emerging countries like Indonesia can be a real pain for most consumer that consumes mobile apps. Although it’s clear that infrastructure in Indonesia is a huge problem, it seems like it won’t go away anytime soon. This is exactly the problem mobile platform startup Blaast decided to solve. Their solution: data-efficient Android apps.
For this launch, Blaast partners with phone manufacturer Sony to get the app preloaded on every Sony Experia J phones for sale in Indonesia. Blaast also partners with telco company XL Axiata to get a special-tailored data package for Blaast usage in Android phones. “In cooperation with our developer community we are bringing their highest quality apps on our platform. The initial launch will include 20 apps, with more coming in the future as we invite developers to submit their apps” said Reza Prabowo, Blaast’s Developer Relations Lead in an official company statement.
Blaast, a Finland-based company first launched in Indonesia end of 2011 together with the strategic partnership announcement with telco company XL Axiata to bring the mobile platform to Indonesian user base. The thing that makes Blaast different from other platforms, is that they initially aiming for the low-end feature-phone market in Indonesia. The huge chunk of market that couldn’t afford a full-functioning smartphones such as Androids and iPhones.
Not too long after launched in Indonesia, Blaast decided to switch its focus to a bigger chunk of market and will be ready to launch an Android version of its mobile platform, putting it in some kind of competition with Google Play Store. Blaast is also making its mark with their relationship with local developers by having hackathons and some serious developer relationship programs.
“Blaast aims to be the consumer’s champion for using mobile apps. We want to offer users favorite apps for less data and less money around the world. The pre-installation of Blaast on Sony Xperia J is a great milestone for us in reaching our vision” says Joonas Hjelt, Co-founder and CEO, Blaast.
