Andy Rubin just published a post on the Official Google Blog where he announced some sweeping changes in the company’s approach to selling phones. The company has realized that after a few months, the store needs to be adjusted to reflect the needs and wants of consumers. It appears that customers are not ready to buy phones over the internet without playing with them first.
But, as with every innovation, some parts worked better than others. While the global adoption of the Android platform has exceeded our expectations, the web store has not. It’s remained a niche channel for early adopters, but it’s clear that many customers like a hands-on experience before buying a phone, and they also want a wide range of service plans to chose from.
There are two major changes happening to the store. First, the Nexus One is going retail. Like some carriers are doing overseas, Google wants to do here in the United States. This means giving people a real hands-on experience with the phone(s) before asking for their m0ney. Secondly, the website over at google.com/phone will become a place for people to go to check out Android phones from around the world. There will be no handsets sold through the store any longer, instead using the site to show off Android products.