HTC May Make Google Phone

Taiwan component makers claim to have confirmed that Google is working on its own cellphone, despite previous denials. Although the device may have little connection to the heavily rumored Switch touchscreen device, the sources report that the well-known smartphone producer HTC will build the phone and should incorporate both a Texas Instruments-made 3G wireless chip (most likely HSDPA) for Internet access as well as EDGE. Despite Google's heavy investment in its Maps tool, however, the phone isn't expected to include GPS and will instead turn to Gmail and its keystone web search.

If true, shipments would begin in late 2007 with official availability by 2008. The first known provider would be the European provider Orange, the suppliers said, but talks are underway for other carriers around the world. HTC isn't expected to put its name to the finished product. [via DigiTimes]

By Electronista Staff