VZW To Sell Droid and upcoming Android Devices through Google

[cereal killer]

Just confirmed via CES that VZW has jumped on board.

When new Android devices come out you can purchase via Google Checkout. You will need a Google account as well.

[gardobus]

Interesting

[Martin030908]

What advantage does this create vs. purchasing from VZW?

[brendanstl]

So google can watch over Verizon when they bend their rules for upgrades.

[iPirate]

So google can watch over Verizon when they bend their rules for upgrades.

Why does google care? Isn't Android free?

I'm going to stick with buying my phone with the company that will provide services. The Apple/ATT method did not seem to go well when there is a problem with the phone.

[thesandman51]

I'm not sure if I like this idea.

[cereal killer]

What advantage does this create vs. purchasing from VZW?

expands their market and advertising.

No difference but it's just an option. It will be especially great for non customers who already have a Google checkout/Account...click click click.

All in one place to shop for your device and carrier. A lot of people are always wondering if they can get X device on Y carrier now they will know.

[gardobus]

Honestly it shouldn't hurt Verizon. It actually could get them more customers if someone can click around on Google's site and see that "oh damn I was going to go to TMo because of the Nexus one but it looks like its on Verizon too!". Just another way for people to purchase a Verizon phone.

Also even if Google sells them, Verizon gets the monthly $$$$

[bacalao]

And VZW doesn't have to spend as much on advertising it either. Just about everybody uses google and run into it on the web.

[imiller913]

And VZW doesn't have to spend as much on advertising it either. Just about everybody uses google and run into it on the web.

yup and at the end of the month you still pay your bill to vzw. Nice business move for vzw.