With the Nexus program, Google partners with several companies in creating phones and tablets that deliver a "pure" Android experience. According to The Telegraph, it looks like Google is set to release its own phone developed internally with more control over the "design, manufacturing and software" that doesn't involve a partnership with a well-known brand.
Citing a senior source, The Telegraph writes:
The technology giant is in discussions with mobile operators about releasing a Google-branded phone that will extend the company's move into hardware, sources familiar with the discussions told The Telegraph.The new device, which will be released by the end of the year according to a senior source, will see Google take more control over design, manufacturing and software.
Earlier this month, Google CEO Sundar Pichai talked about the search giant being "more opinionated as to the design of the phone." Then there's the newly-minted hardware division, helmed by former Motorola president Rick Osterloh.
That doesn't mean that the Nexus line is being waylaid, as Pichai reiterated that Google is fully committed to working with OEMs and putting more "thought into our Nexus devices." What's more, Android Central understands that the Nexus program isn't going away in the long-term.
A self-branded phone could just be the case of Google exerting more control over the design and manufacturing of the handset, much like what it does with devices like the Chromebook Pixel and Pixel C tablet.
For now, the story is still a rumor, and should be taken as such until we have more concrete details. What's your take on a Google-branded phone?
