Do you think Google was testing the waters with Nexus 4?

[omniusovermind]

I know this wasn't their first Nexus and to be honest I have no idea what the distribution method was for the Nexus phones prior to the Galaxy Nexus. But I can't shake this gut feeling that the Nexus 4 was Google testing the waters of demand + distribution to prepare for the launch of the Nexus 5. Both LG and Google weren't exactly 100% forthcoming as to why exactly there were so few units supplied to match the demand at the start of this phone. It wasn't actually until the demand became extremely obvious that the manufacturing and shipments kicked into high gear. My personal feeling is that this was like a test run for a more streamlined launch of the Nexus 5. I can't say I really blame them. From a business perspective Google actually played their cards pretty smart. I think how the Nexus 4 played out has given them a much firmer idea of how many units they'll need for the N5 launch. If they repeat the short supply problem next time around we'll know that they're simply screwing up. If not and it goes a lot smoother then we'll know they've used the experience to get the next phone in people's hands on time. I'm pretty excited to see what they come up with!

 

[Tall Mike 2145]

Nope.

 

[anon(847090)]

you logic has flaw. the reason why there was a shortage in Nexus 4 is because Google never expected nexus 4 to be a huge seller.
galaxy nexus probably would have sold 400k in 1 years(even sold it via carrier).
but nexus 4 has sold almost close to 2 million.
They will learn from their mistake and move forward with supply

 

[Tall Mike 2145]

I've done my best to try and recommend the Nexus 4 to others. I think the biggest issue, at least here in the U.S., is that there is still a preference for subsidized phones. Why spend $400 or $500 on a smart phone (which yes I know the N4 is not that price) when you can "get it for free" or "get it for $99"... It's a mindset that we are used to here.

I sincerely hope that Google keeps putting them out without any kind of lock to a carrier; we need more freedom and liberty here, not less. And, to the extent that Google can facilitate that, then good on them, I say.

 

[Jnorton2724]

I've done my best to try and recommend the Nexus 4 to others. I think the biggest issue, at least here in the U.S., is that there is still a preference for subsidized phones. Why spend $400 or $500 on a smart phone (which yes I know the N4 is not that price) when you can "get it for free" or "get it for $99"... It's a mindset that we are used to here.

I sincerely hope that Google keeps putting them out without any kind of lock to a carrier; we need more freedom and liberty here, not less. And, to the extent that Google can facilitate that, then good on them, I say.

Yea I don't think people know much else outside of the carrier prices and two year contracts. Its sad really.

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Android Central Forums

 

[mr_nobody]

I figure there's even more incentive to buy an unlocked phone here in canada where the standard contract length is _3 years_. *shudders*

 

[quicksilver53]

You're right Mr_nobody. 3 years is too long for us Canadians.

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Android Central Forums

 

[llamainmypocket]

I don't think so and I think the limited availability is on LG's shoulders. I do think that Samsung and Google are trying to distance themselves from each other because the partnership has been too good as android rose to the top as well as Samsung by the joint venture. Naturally, Samsung is entertaining the idea of a none android OS as well as building over android more and more while Google is trying to build on its own brand as well as acquire Motorola.

The relationship between Samsung and Google will have to become less apparent or it will cease to exist all together.