Google to tie-up with multiple OEMs to create a “porfolio” of Nexus Android smartphones/tablets

Google is likely to change its policy regarding Nexus smartphones and tablets and work with as many as five manufacturers to create a portfolio of Nexus devices, the WSJ reports. Rather than working with just one vendor by providing them with the latest release of Android in advance and later providing an exclusivity window period, Google could work with multiple parties for the next iteration of Android codenamed Jelly Bean. It would create a portfolio of tablets and smartphones, rather than having just one device.
This strategy could work in Google’s favor on multiple counts. First, it would help Google manage its multiple tier-one OEM partners that felt alienated with Google’s strategy of working with just one partner for the pure “Google” device. By having all of them develop different devices, Google will ensure they rally along with its services on top of Android rather than going the forked Android way like Amazon did with the Kindle Fire.
Having the major players on board will be equally important for Google as it is expected to wrap up its acquisition of Motorola Mobility in the coming months. Rival companies have been wary of Google’s acquisition of a competing manufacturer and having all of the big-time OEMs develop Nexus devices would go a long way to take care of their suspicions.
Finally, it would also give consumers more choice to get the pure Google experience and ensure that they get their Android updates on time. This would help Google retain consumer confidence in Android, which is being badgered because of the unwillingness of OEMs to provide updates for their devices.
The WSJ report is also claiming that Google would retail these devices on its own across America, Europe and Asia and could also tie-up with retail chains rather than carriers to sell these devices.