Google Phone, now called Nexus One, Coming After New Years?

Could the Google Phone be crossing through to consumer tangibility some time soon? The latest, swirling internet rumor says, “Yes!”  An unnamed source told Rueters that Google is planning to release its own touchscreen phone –  named the Nexus One or the HTC Dream/Passion — as early as January 5. Sourcey McNoName goes on to say that the headset, which looks like a larger Droid Eris sans answer/hang up hard buttons, will be released in two versions: one for State-siders with T-Mobile and another that’s unlocked. Google Phone mania heated up late last week when it was leaked that Google doled out the handset to employees for mobile services testing. Shots appeared on the gossip-net soon thereafter, including YouTube video of the phone’s possible boot animation …and a programming party that featured the Google Phone as guest of honor? Jokes aside, there is excitement for a reason. The Nexus One appears to be packing Android 2.1,  meaning it’ll include support for full-on GPS navigation for sure. Other spec details are flying around, too, none of them truly confirmed. Here’s the current (wish) list.

• Google Goggles software that lets you take search the web by sending in pictures of landmarks and businesses.
• Wi-Fi radio
• Snapdragon processor
• AMOLED display
• 5MP camera
• No physical keyboard (We have to say, this looks true)

And of course, Google’s decision to begin peddling its own hardware device — especially one with the very same Android software they designed for an an open handset “alliance” with a number of cell manufacturers — is a contentious one, to say the least. Will the manufacturers of today’s successful Android phones feel a little threatened by a new handset built — and sold for profit — by big brother Google? Probably so. We’ll have to see how it pans out.