Google’s merger of Android and Pixel groups perhaps excellent news for Samsung

Google lately underwent a main inside reorganization. The corporate merged its Android and {Hardware} (Pixel) groups as a part of this reorganization. If you do not know already, the Android crew was accountable for creating the Android OS and associated platforms, whereas the {Hardware} crew was accountable for Pixel smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, and different {hardware} merchandise.

This could possibly be good or unhealthy information for Samsung and different Android OEMs, relying on what Google does subsequent.

Google claims merger of Android and {Hardware} groups will assist it deliver higher options sooner

This new crew inside Alphabet is now referred to as Platforms and Gadgets and is headed by Rick Osterloh. It should now develop software program for the Android ecosystem and Google’s {hardware} merchandise. Earlier, Google maintained a distance between Android and Pixel merchandise in order that Android could possibly be seen as a impartial supplier for all manufacturers, together with Pixel. This meant that Google’s Pixel crew would not have the higher hand in comparison with different smartphone OEMs. That distance is not current, with Android and {Hardware} groups being merged.

So, ought to Samsung be anxious? Apparently not.

Google says its accomplice manufacturers (like Honor, OnePlus, OPPO, Samsung, Vivo, and Xiaomi) should not fear. The corporate says the merger must be seen as a constructive, because the Android ecosystem can now develop issues sooner. Rick Osterloh met with Samsung MX CEO TM Roh lately and claimed the businesses’ relationship has by no means been stronger.

In an interview with TheVerge, Rick Osterloh and Hiroshi Lockheimer (the earlier head of Android, Chrome, and ChromeOS) revealed that they’ve been discussing this merger with Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai for over two years. He mentioned consolidating groups “helps us to have the ability to do full-stack innovation when that is vital.” He additionally mentioned that with this merger, it could now deliver AI to all its merchandise sooner.

Can we belief Google to observe via, although?

Google lately introduced a few of its options (Circle to Search and Put on OS) to Samsung first after which to Pixel units. This transfer could possibly be a method for Google to cease OEMs from worrying. Nonetheless, we should wait and watch Google’s strikes longer to know if it’s going to keep on with its promise. We all know what number of good merchandise Google has killed through the years (examine Google Graveyard), together with the nifty little Chromecast.

If Google follows via with its promise, the Android ecosystem will enhance vastly. The corporate has streamlined lots of its platforms and providers over the previous few years. In collaboration with Samsung, it improved Google Residence, Close by Share, and Put on OS. Nonetheless, it has additionally ruined many merchandise, together with Fitbit and Nest. Many people understand how rapidly typically Google decides to throw within the towel (taking a look at you, Stadia).

If Google would not observe via, it will be disastrous for Samsung and all different Android OEMs. Hopefully, Samsung is protecting an in depth eye on Google and the way it’s approaching Android and Put on OS.