The techie blogosphere has been atwitter the last 24 hours with the possibility that Google will introduce its own branded Android-based smartphones and Chrome OS-based computers. The rumor was floated by well-known analyst Ashok Kumar, who reportedly got his information from Google’s hardware design partners.
In a note to clients, Kumar says the “netbook,” due in 2010, would run the Chrome OS and incorporate Qualcomm’s Snapdragon platform. Our first reaction to this, if true, is why is Kumar referring to this forthcoming device as a netbook rather than a smartbook? After all, a smartbook, by definition, is based on an ARM processor, and by some measures, specifically the Snapdragon platform. This may illustrate the challenge that smartbook makers have in defining the category and distinguishing it from netbooks and other ultra-portables.
Our second reaction to this news, again with the caveat that it may not be true, is that it will be good news for the smartbook segment. With the brand recognition and financial resources of Google behind it, a Google-branded device will likely give the emerging category a boost. The same goes for the forthcoming Chrome OS.
It remains to be seen whether Google’s OEM partners and wireless carriers, who may end up competing with Google, will feel the same way. Google had to stress non-competition when transitioning from early G-phone rumors to Android reality, after all.
Ultimately, though, consumers will be the biggest beneficiaries. More players means more choices, which usually leads to more competitive pricing and cutting edge innovation.
Lisa
