The return of an HTC Nexus device is near. The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Google’s Nexus strategy will undergo a transformational change, allowing up to five OEMs to have early access to the next version of Android so they can develop Nexus devices which will be sold through the Google Play store.
While the Wall Street Journal did not specifically mention HTC as one of the five OEMs which would be getting early access to Jelly Bean (presumably Android 5.0), we are pretty confident they are at the top of the list. The report indicates that Google plans on making the next generation of Nexus devices available by Thanksgiving which is only six months away.
Google’s new strategy may sound a little bizarre since the previous Nexus devices were used as flagship devices to showcase the latest version of the OS accompanied by some of the best hardware OEMs could get their hands on. Giving multiple OEMs the opportunity to develop a Nexus device at the same time would presumably give consumers more choices, but we’re not exactly sure what would be the differentiating factor. HTC and other OEMs have built solid brands around their unique software experiences which give them something to call their own. The only true difference between the next generation of Nexus devices will be their internal components and exterior hardware design.
Fortunately for HTC, a strong relationship with Qualcomm and a world-class design team should be enough to make an HTC Nexus device the most popular option when compared to the competition.
What do you think of Google’s new Nexus strategy? Is it the right move for Google? More importantly – will you be buying an HTC Nexus?
Source: Wall Street Journal
Personally I think it’s a very clever idea. I feel it’s akin to giving 5 car manufacturers equal amounts of metal, plastic, etc, + an untuned engine, to see who comes up with the car voted the most desirable and value for money, by the public.
I’d be interested to see what HTC would come up with. It’s been 2.5 years since the Nexus One made its debut, but it is still regarded as one of the best Android phones ever made (even with its touchscreen flaws).
Ultimately what I would like to see/buy is a pure android phone with large battery like in razr maxx.