Geely to start making high-end smartphones

Would you buy a Geely smartphone?

When we think of Geely, the brand's crossover lineup often comes to mind – the Okavango, the Azkarra, and the hot-selling Coolray. While they do have other models, those aren't sold in the Philippines (yet).

However, it seems Geely will be selling more than just automobiles in the future. The company announced that it will also develop and sell “premium smart devices”, which include smartphones, to global consumers.

Yes, you'll soon see Geely smartphones in the market.

In an announcement, the automaker (and soon-to-be smartphone manufacturer) said Hubei Xingji Shidai Technology Co. Ltd, a company founded by Geely Holding Group Chairman Eric Li, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with the Wuhan Economic and Technological Development Zone and announced its entry into the mobile devices sector. Furthermore, Geely will leverage its experience in design, R&D, high-end smart manufacturing, and software development in the manufacturing of mobile devices.

But why make smartphones? Mobile devices now play a big role with automobiles, and it seems Geely wants to take advantage of this by launching their own products to complement their vehicles. Li even adds that mobile phones and devices can act as a pathway to “greater automotive applications”.

“There is a close connection in technologies within intelligent vehicle cockpits and smartphone software technologies. The major trend in the coming future is to create user ecosystems across borders and provide users with more convenient, smarter, and seamlessly connected multi-screen experiences,” said Li.

The company has not provided details regarding the branding of the phone or when it might launch. However, it will likely go up against the likes of Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi in the premium smartphone category.

Once Geely's new smartphone line debuts, would you make the switch assuming it integrates with their vehicles better? Or would you stick to the phone you're using now? Let us know what you think in the comments.