While we had seen reports suggesting termination of the Nexus line, we thought it would be replaced by the Google Play editions of the high-end devices. But seems like Google has planned something totally different.
According to reports, Google is planning to replace the Nexus line with the Android Silver program, which would be a new line-up of premium Android smartphones. This program is essentially crafted to provide Google more control over the high-end Android market, which is dominated by Samsung currently, thus giving it a chance to challenge the Apple iPhone.
As per the report, manufacturers joining the Silver program would be paid by Google to manufacture smartphones as per the specifications provided and with a limit on the number of non-Google apps pre-installed. Being directly controlled by Google, this will mean quicker Android updates. As of now only LG, Motorola and a few Chinese manufacturers seem to be interested in the program whereas smartphone giants like Samsung and HTC have flatly denied to be a part of this.
