Google’s hardware efforts are set to go beyond smartphones and tablets in the near future. Citing people familiar with the matter, The Wall Street Journal reports that Google is looking to broaden its hardware portfolio to better compete against Apple and its own upcoming products.
The Google hardware being developed includes a gaming console and a smartwatch as well as a second-generation media-streaming device to succeed the Nexus Q that never reached the market. What do all these devices have in common? All are powered by Google’s Android operating system. Google is hoping to design and market the devices itself and aims to have at least one launch this fall. Which is not clear though.
The report adds that Google also wants to launch its own low-cost smartphones for emerging markets. Rather than working with Motorola (which is also rumoured to be working on such a device, the Motorola DVX), Google is developing its smartphones through its Android unit and Google X hardware lab.
As for the next version of Android, Google is now finishing up its development to launch it this fall as Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie. Among the enhancements we can expect are lower and broader hardware requirements that will better support entry- and mid-tier devices as well as extend Android’s reach to include new types of devices, including laptops (AndroidBooks?) and appliances such as refrigerators. Rumours of Androidbooks first surfaced back in April and both Hewlett-Packard and Samsung are among the manufacturers reportedly working on such devices.
Are you ready for a whole lot more Android in your future? Let us know below.
Source : The Wall Street Journal