That won't change.... near as I can tell, Google is just going to make it attractive to any phone maker to put a device into this program (i.e. cash and kickbacks). They aren't going to all of a sudden change and tell people that they can't screw with the OS anymore. They are just going to point out to people how much those screwed with versions of Android suck.
This is the key point a lot of people miss.
Let's breakdown a few things.
What is the Android source code?
Android is an open-source software stack created for a wide array of devices with different form factors. The primary purposes of Android are to create an open software platform available for carriers, OEMs, and developers to make their innovative ideas a reality and to introduce a successful, real-world product that improves the mobile experience for users. We also wanted to make sure there was no central point of failure, where one industry player could restrict or control the innovations of any other. The result is a full, production-quality consumer product with source code open for customization and porting.
What does Google want with Android? Google is a search company. Google wants your information. What's the best way to do that? An open platform that hooks into (closed) Google services.
OEMs pay nothing to Google to use Android. OEMs also pay nothing to Google to use Google's services. Google also doesn't pay OEMs to build Android devices.
As long as the devices hook into Google's services, Google is getting what they want. Implementing the (closed) Play Store is enough of a payment, IMO.
The rumored Android Silver program is supposed to change that. If Google pays OEMs directly to build these Android Silver devices, Google should get a say in the hardware and software design implementation.