Wednesday, March 9, 2016

HTC Signs 3-Years Google Nexus Manufacturing Deal: Report


There have been recent reports about HTC manufacturing the next Nexus device this year in collaboration with Google. Now, a new report from China claims that Google's parent company, Alphabet, has signed a three years contract with HTC to make Nexus devices. If this comes out to be true, we may see HTC unveiling its Nexus devices as platform lead devices for the upcoming Android N version, as well as Android O and Android P in next two years.

Google has flip-flopped between hardware partners over the years for its Nexus devices. It tied up with LG for Nexus 4, Nexus 5 and Nexus 5x, while it teamed up with Motorola for the Nexus 6 and Huawei Nexus 6P. It may be recalled that LG had confirmed it was not going to build Nexus smartphones this year as it aimed to focus on its own range of devices. At MWC 2016, LG showed the intent as well with unique modular smartphone, LG G5, and a new range of companion devices.

The rumored three year partnership between HTC and Google, however, has come as a surprise. It may be recalled that Google has been looking to have greater control on the hardware, and even reported to be developing own processors and in house designed devices on the lines of Apple’s strategy for iPhones. But hardware partners have reportedly shown reluctance towards Google’s efforts to have majority of the control, and is believed to be one of the reasons why LG backed out of the Nexus program. If true, the partnership also means Huawei is highly unlikely to be associated with the Nexus project any time sooner.

Based on preliminary leaks, HTC is likely to add the 3D Touch like display feature in its rumoured Nexus smartphone this year. A report from January suggested that the Taiwanese company in collaboration with Google is expected to unveil two Nexus-branded smartphones this year.

It is important to note that these are rumors thus far, and that HTC and Google haven’t yet confirmed or refuted it. As Google I/O 2016 approaches, we are most likely to have more credible information. The developer conference will be held in May this year.


Previous Post
Next Post

post written by:

0 comments: