Flavours of Android for Handset manufacturers

Android is available to handset manufacturers in three flavors.


First is a “no obligation” version, meaning that a manufacturer can load Android onto a handset and restrict access to certain apps and games in any way it sees fit. It can’t, however, preload Google applications onto the device (Gmail, etc).


The second version is similar to the above version except that manufacturers are allowed to preload Google applications onto the device by signing a distribution agreement with Google. Google expects about 12 to 14 handsets of this version coming out this year.


Finally, the third version is the “Google Experience” version, which includes Google branding on the device itself, among other things. According to the New York Times - These phones Google calls “The Google Experience.” They are physically distinguishable by the “Google” logo on the phone. They include a range of Google applications that the carrier and handset maker agree not to remove from the phone. The carrier and handset maker also agree not to censor access to the Android market. Meaning: if some developer comes up with an application that some people find distasteful, or that gets bad press, it must nevertheless remain available to consumers. 5 to 6 phones of this varierty are expected this year