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The US government has set up a funding program that caters to manufacturers who want to bring affordable devices with AI ecosystem for more people.
The Edge AI package could unlock the affordable phone market.
The big AI developments continues to trickle down the newsmakers this week and now the US government has announced its own Edge AI package for the Indo-Pacific region that is looking to support programs and enable accelerated use of AI tools and systems that can be powered on affordable devices.
This is a US-centric version of an incentive program where manufacturers can be funded for up to $200 million that will support availability of budget phones, both in Android and iOS ecosystem.
Edge AI Package: What It Means For Indian Users
The main agenda of this AI package is to enable more people in the Indo-Pacific region to get affordable phones and allow them to be part of the “open, interoperable and innovative-driven software ecosystem.”
The US government is looking for partners and vendors who want to cater to consumers with affordable devices and also use them running on trusted platforms. “The programme seeks proposals that enhance the competitiveness of next-generation smartphones powered by trusted operating systems. The move is positioned as part of broader US efforts to strengthen secure digital infrastructure among partner nations,” the US State Department said in a statement.
The government set up its guidelines that the partners need to adopt while looking to get funds for the program.
Focus on price
The companies signing up for the program need to have a clear vision and plan to use the funds to deliver devices at an affordable level in the region.
Working in unison
The government wants to prioritise companies that are already present or working with brands that have their base in Pax Silica countries. Having this condition supports easy integration and sharing of technology for better services.
Using trusted mobile OS
The package is also available if the partners use American mobile OS like Android and iOS and also get support for the full app and AI ecosystem.
How To Apply For Edge AI Package
The Edge AI package is likely to attract many brands and the government has set up the terms and process that gets you the funding. The authorities want proposals to be emailed to EdgeAI@state.gov which will help them with additional information and technical requirements. The package proposals can be submitted for a window that will remain open for 90 days.
United States of America (USA)
February 20, 2026, 12:46 IST
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