Google is reportedly looking to build their own Android smartphone in-house

According to a new report from The Information, Google could be looking into building their own smartphone. The phone, which would be built in-house by Google, would see the internet search giant competing directly with smartphone manufactures like HTC, Motorola, Samsung, and Sony — all partners who currently build their own altered versions of Android.

The topic is still being discussed and debated, so on the rare occasion that this report (read: rumor) is accurate, it’s entirely possible the talks wont get very far, but it is an interesting idea. Traditionally, Google co-develops a smartphone with an OEM of their choice, then re-brands it as a “Nexus” smartphone with stock Android software and updates coming directly from Google. With Google building the phone themselves — and maybe even the processor that powers it — they might find themselves stepping on some toes.

Although it’s tough to say if this rumor has any legs, it’s not entirely far fetched. Not too long ago Google built Google Glass in-house, so a smartphone doesn’t sound far off. By launching their own smartphone, they’d have complete control over both the hardware and software, allowing it to be used as a reference platform of sorts. It’s a move we saw recently from Microsoft who now builds their own Surface laptop/tablet hardware in addition to their Windows software. Have to admit, I’m salivating as I type this. How about you?