Google has a rule of thumb that it partners with a hardware manufacturer for two generations of a Nexus device. On the smartphone side, Samsung built the Nexus S and Galaxy Nexus while LG built the Nexus 4 and is more than likely behind the Nexus 5. Even HTC can be said to have built two if you include the Nexus One and the G1, the very first Android device. On the tablet side, ASUS built both the first and second generation Nexus 7 tablets. It appears that the rule will be invoked again for the third-generation Nexus 7 tablet.
Digitimes reports that rumours are starting to suggest that Google will not partner with ASUS for the next Nexus 7 tablet. The move may be behind ASUS’ recent spat of announcements as it could be an attempt to find devices that could help it fill the hole left by the loss of Nexus 7 orders next year.
With Digitimes itself calling this report a rumour and not citing its usual “industry sources”, it appears that even Digitimes is not quite ready to put its name behind this one. Let’s keep firmly in the rumour column until more information surfaces.
As for who Google could partner with, there are no hints yet. HTC is reportedly looking to get back into the tablet market. How about a waterproof Nexus 7 from Sony? Or could Google choose a Chinese partner as it looks to expand its footprint in emerging markets such as China?
Let us know below who you would like to see partner with Google on the next Nexus 7.
Source : Digitimes