When Google opened up their online store to exclusively sell the Nexus One, it was deemed a radical move in the US because of the mix-and-match approach.
The handset was never offered in retail stores (not even on display) and the only way to get it was on the online store. Buyers are also given the option to get it unlocked or with a plan from a choice of telcos.
Google also promised that other future Google-branded Android handsets will be sold in the online store. It was a nice idea and if there’s someone who can pull that kind of stunt in the US, it would have been Google.
Alas, the strategy proved to be hard to pull off. For one, telcos didn’t like the idea that they don’t have control (Verizon pulled out of the deal and opted to support the HTC Incredible instead).
As such, Google decided not to push thru with the plans and announced it will soon close down the online store. Google added that it will instead work with local carriers to offer the Nexus One.
So for us here in the Philippines, this could mean one of two things — (1) you won’t be able to order the Nexus One and other future Google handsets on the online store and have it shipped here or (2) maybe expect one of the local carriers like Smart or Globe to partner with Google and offer the Nexus One locally.
The HTC Incredible looks pretty awesome. Do you think it’ll come here in the Philippines? I like it.