Target for domestic phone is 2027: Tests continue in Malatya

The timeline for the domestic smartphone project developed in collaboration with Türk Telekom and ASELSAN has begun to clarify. According to information provided by Türk Telekom CEO Ebubekir Şahin, production and testing processes are ongoing at the facility in Malatya, with the goal of bringing the device to users in the first half of 2027.

The project is being conducted by Türk Telekom, ASELSAN, and TTT İnovasyon, which is part of the Turkic World Business Council. During a meeting with journalists while in the US, Şahin explained that the division of labor between the companies was determined based on their areas of expertise.

Accordingly, ASELSAN will be responsible for hardware and production processes. Türk Telekom will undertake the software, content, marketing, distribution, and branding aspects. It was stated that the phone's design was developed in Turkey and that the device is planned to be positioned in the premium, high-end, and mid-range segments.

THREE-STAGE ROADMAP

For the domestic phone, it is envisioned that it will enter the market with the Android operating system in the first stage. In subsequent phases, the goal is for Turkey to develop its own operating system and chip technology. Şahin stated that these phases are planned to progress at intervals of approximately one year and that investments have already begun.

The project aims for the device to reach a level where it can compete with its rivals in the market, particularly in terms of battery and camera performance. On the sales and distribution side, Türk Telekom's existing network will play a critical role. It was noted that the company has 606 dealerships and 57 million customers.

It was also announced that work on the brand name for the phone is ongoing. According to the plan, a presentation will be made to the Presidency at the end of 2026, and the naming process will be carried out with professional support. For a name that is suitable for international use and has strong phonetics, the goal is to narrow down hundreds of suggestions to five candidates through tests and surveys.

News Source: 12punto