Andy Rubin published a post on the Official Google Blog where he announced some sweeping changes in the company’s approach to selling phones. The company acknowledged that after a few months, the web store needed to be adjusted to reflect the needs and wants of consumers. Customers simply weren’t ready to buy phones over the internet without playing with them first.
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 choose from.
Two major changes were announced. First, the Nexus One was going retail, giving people a real hands-on experience before committing. Secondly, the website at google.com/phone would become a showcase for Android phones from around the world, with no handsets sold directly through the store.
