Google to Start Selling Own Phone Without Wireless Partner by Next Year - WSJ.com

I suspect Motorola and other handset partners aren’t thrilled about this

Now, Google appears to want to throw its brand behind a device more directly, designing a phone without working with the wireless carriers that often dictate what features they allow on their networks.

The move could alienate wireless carriers and handset makers that offer Android phones and do not want to compete with Google. Google has repeatedly said that its goal is to have hundreds of Android phones rather than one.

The move also marks a rare foray into direct sales for Google. With the exception of an appliance it markets as a search tool to businesses, the company hasn't sold hardware in the past.

Google to Start Selling Own Phone Without Wireless Partner by Next Year - WSJ.com