"Worst high profile product launch ever?" Are you saying that simply because demand far outstripped supply, and Google wasn't prepared? I haven't seen many complaining about the phone outside of that issue. Google was never known as a retail outlet. I think the launch of the Verizon Galaxy Nexus was worse, what with the initial delays, Verizon refusing to load Google Wallet on the phone because of ISIS, and heavily delayed software updates. That's a bigger black eye than the high demand on the Nexus 4 and resulting supply line problems.
As for the OP, I fully expect the Nexus 4 to be viable for a good two years. There's always something better just around the corner.
Cayote, the issues with Nexus 4 launch are not just demand outstripping supply. There are several other issues. Lack of communication on the shipping status for people who ordered Nov 13, 27 and later. Shipping orders placed Dec 1st week before fulfilling Nov launch date orders etc. I have communicated with Google and they have acknowledged the fulfillment and communication issues. Google VP's statement about LG's supply being 'scarce and erratic' is the public acknowledgement of the problems.
On the demand and supply side Google has not come out with any specifics of how many sold so far.
Please don't get me wrong, I have been firmly in Android camp since Android 2.2 days and don't mind waiting to get my Nexus 4 no matter how long it takes. Google is in the right direction with coming out with a high end unlocked device at low cost. They need to smooth out their execution. Agree they don't want to be a retailer, but if they are selling products from Play Store then there are some basics they need to adhere to.
As for the OP, Nexus 4 will not be outdated like the carrier devices. You can easily get 2 years out of it since it have enough power to run new Android versions for that period at least.
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