A report claims that Google is set to drop its own line of pure Android handsets in favor of a new program that will persuade manufacturers to build higher-quality phones of their own. According to sources that spoke to The Information, the program goes by the name of Android Silver and is Google's way of getting handset makers to focus not just on premium internal components, but on design too. People briefed on the matter that spoke to the publication claim that "manufacturers and wireless carriers will effectively be paid to produce and sell high-end devices that closely adhere to Google specifications" and that it will enable Google to scrap the Nexus line of phones and tablets. The slides also suggest that only five phones at any one time can have ‘Silver' status and will be marketed differently from other Android smartphones.



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