Google will give up to the development of the Nexus range of products in favor of Google Play Edition models, so say a rumor appeared earlier this year. The possibility of abandoning the name Nexus was recently resumed. Changing the direction of Google could become reality, according to The Information. Google will begin a program called Android Silver, which will support the launch of devices based on an unmodified version of the Android platform.
Currently, the Android operating system is in an unchanged form on Nexus terminals, manufactured by different producers as required by Google, but also on Google Play Edition that are fully developed models at the pleasure of manufacturers. As Google Play Edition, the Android Silver program will allow manufacturers to launch a terminal under its own name and use an unmodified version of the Android platform, but there are some interesting differences.
First, it says that Google will have a stronger direct control over software that it will use on these devices.
Another significant difference is the targeted market segment. If Nexus models were assessed for peak hardware configurations offered at good prices, but which involved some compromises, Android Silver models would be expensive products in the upper range. Manufacturers will have the freedom in the development of hardware products, but should take into account the directions that Google may consider the best to highlight the software platform.
Moreover, unlike the Nexus and Google Play Edition models, which could be purchased at subsidized prices only from Google Play, Android Silver terminals will be available on the shelves of all stores.
Google is ready to support promotional campaigns for upcoming Android Silver products with a total amount which can be up to one billion dollars, according to rumor. The purpose of this initiative is to promote the benefits of Android platform released from proprietary interfaces and additional applications that manufacturers use.
At this point , it seems that LG and Motorola would be the first companies interested in launching Android Silver models, other manufacturers being able to join the process. If Nexus range will not disappear, as stated, the start of this initiative will bring to market three different ranges of terminals running an unmodified version of the Android platform, giving buyers more options attracted from this aspect.
