Google delays launch of Nexus Q, awards free device to those with pre-orders
Last week it appeared Google had begun the rollout of the Nexus Q to the general public. Shortly after it appeared as though Google had sold out. Something tells me the initial response wasn’t so great, because the reality is that Google actually suspended the launch of the media playback device. Word of the delay comes from an email being sent to those with pre-orders, which cites consumer desires for the Q to do a bit more than simply act as a $300 jukebox. So that’s the bad news. The good news, for those that pre-ordered, is that Google is rewarding their patience with a free Nexus Q, just as was given to attendees at Google I/O.
It’s a standup move by Google, a company that wants to deliver on its promise of a July release without charging customers for a device that arguably isn’t worth its high price tag at this time, hence the promise of the same free “developer” device that was handed out at I/O. Google is saying these pre-orders will ship out soon, but for those that were planning on picking up the Q after seeing some feedback from the general public, the wait will continue. When Google will relaunch the new and improved Nexus Q is unknown. Here’s the full email:
We have an important update about your Nexus Q pre-order.
When we announced Nexus Q at Google I/O, we gave away devices to attendees for an early preview. The industrial design and hardware were met with great enthusiasm. We also heard initial feedback from users that they want Nexus Q to do even more than it does today. In response, we have decided to postpone the consumer launch of Nexus Q while we work on making it even better.
To thank you for your early interest, we’d like to extend the Nexus Q preview to our pre-order customers and send you a free device. If you had other items in your order, your credit card will be charged for those items only.
Your Nexus Q will be on its way soon and you will receive a notification and tracking number from Google Play when it ships.
The Nexus Q Team