MediaTek becomes first chipset maker to join Google’s GMS Express programme

MediaTek on Thursday announced a partnership with GMS Express, a programme designed to provide verified Android software solutions such as GoogleTM Mobile Services (GMS) and Google Compatibility Test Suite (CTS) certification.

As GMS Express's first System-on-Chip (SoC) partner, MediaTek can help device makers get to market more cost effectively and faster, thereby ensuring high-quality, consistent consumer experiences with AndroidTM applications and devices.

Under the new program, MediaTek provides device makers with a pre-tested, pre-certified, and fully compliant build of Android and GMS. For the past several months, MediaTek has already worked with several of its customers in connection with GMS Express. In fact, dozens of brands have already joined the GMS Express program.

"MediaTek is focused on making great technology available to everyone. This program supports the entire Android community and ensures that from the program's OEM participants and their devices within the program," said general manager of MediaTek's wireless business, TL Lee.

"Being the first SoC company endorsed for GMS Express reinforces MediaTek as a full hardware and software solutions provider to help brands improve time to market and user experiences with Android devices," added Lee.

MediaTek customers - Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM's) and Original Design Manufacturers (ODM's) can reduce the typical compatibility certification process from three months to four weeks. They also receive frequent security patches to reduce risks of device hacking.

MediaTek's support of GMS Express is seamless because of its smartphone design expertise and experience working with the large, global Android customer base. The chipsets power more than 1.5 billion devices a year across a broad range of products including smartphones, TVs, voice-assisted devices, routers and more.

"Android has enabled a healthy ecosystem of diverse OEM manufacturers who deliver compelling devices at all price points throughout the world," said VP, Global Android Partnerships, Google, Jim Kolotouros.

"We are excited by MediaTek's leadership in connection with the GMS Express program, and enabling the OEM ecosystem to develop high-quality devices more quickly, more cheaply, and more easily," concluded Kolotouros.