KaiOS mobile operating system

KaiOS is a lightweight mobile operating system designed to bring smartphone-like capabilities to affordable feature phones. It was developed to bridge the digital divide by providing access to essential apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, and Google Maps on devices with physical keypads and non-touch screens. The OS is famously used in devices like the JioPhone in India and various modern Nokia feature phones.

The system is based on B2G (Boot to Gecko), an open-source successor to the discontinued Firefox OS. While the core development and brand management are handled by KaiOS Technologies, the manufacturing of devices running the software takes place across several global hubs, most notably China, India, and Vietnam, through partnerships with hardware manufacturers like TCL, HMD Global, and Reliance Retail.

KaiOS Technologies is a multinational entity with significant backing from major global tech players. Its ownership structure includes investments from Google, Reliance Jio, and TCL Holdings, making it a collaborative effort between software innovators and hardware giants to capture the 'next billion' users in emerging markets.