Google is planning a major tactical change in Android strategy with the
release of its next
version Jelly Bean, reports Wall Street Journal. Company will partner multiple manufacturers to build several Nexus smartphones and tablets, which is a shift from company's previous practice of working with only one hardware manufacturer for a reference device.
version Jelly Bean, reports Wall Street Journal. Company will partner multiple manufacturers to build several Nexus smartphones and tablets, which is a shift from company's previous practice of working with only one hardware manufacturer for a reference device.
This change can be associated with
company's recent decision to revive the direct sales model for Galaxy Nexus in
United States, which is reportedly going to expand with Jelly Bean release. The
direct sales allow Google and hardware makers to exert more control on what
apps and features go into the smartphone. Traditionally wireless carriers in countries
like US and UK have controlled apps and the updates for Android devices, thus
replacing even Google apps like search from the Android smartphones.
The Journal reports also claims that
Mountain View now wants take its direct sales program to countries in Europe
and Asia by selling smartphones and tablets via its websites and some
retailers.
The plan also aims to appease hardware
partners, who are wary of Google's purchase of Motorola Mobility and the fact
that search giant might favour Motorola at their expense. However, under the
new Nexus model, Google will be able to give early access to as many as five
hardware partners including Motorola.
The next version of Android - Jelly
Bean, is expected to launch later this year with new batch of Nexus devices
ready for sale around Thanksgiving (on November 22 this year).
Google has not officially commented on
these reports.