(Yicai Global) Dec. 17 -- Oppo Electronics has opened its first-ever overseas research and development center in Hyderabad, India, as part of the Chinese smartphone maker's efforts to focus on product localization, software, imaging and communication networks.

The Hyderabad R&D center will not only accelerate the development of cutting-edge technology for the Indian market but also improve Oppo's global R&D system, Sina Tech reported Oppo Vice-President Wu Henggang as saying at an event to mark the center's inauguration, adding that India represents one of Oppo's largest overseas markets.

The new facility is Oppo's third such R&D center after similar investments in Shenzhen, Chengdu and its hometown Dongguan.

The company's R&D budget will hit CNY10 billion (USD1.4 billion) for next year, Oppo Chief Executive Chen Yongming said previously.

Oppo sister company OnePlus also aims to set up an R&D center in India and hopes to build the facility into its largest such center globally.

Editor:  William Clegg