Gizmodo has the scoop on the latest Google Nexus One handset.’a0 This handset, which was previously discussed, will soon be available directly from Google.’a0 There has been an event announced for 5 January where Google is expected to unveil the Nexus One.
There were thoughts in the blogosphere that the Nexus One might be sold at cost (around $200 or $300).’a0 However Gizmodo reports that the Nexus One will:
- Be sold for $530 unsubsidized.’a0 However, if you agree to a two year contract with T-Mobile USA, you can get the phone for $180.
- You can buy up to 5 phones per Google account.
- The phone will be marketed as the Nexus One, not as the “Google Phone”.
This high unsubsidized price (a high price by US standards) is an unexpected move.’a0 However, it will be interesting to see how this idea flies in the United States.’a0 Nokia has tried this approach over and over with unsubsidized N Series and E Series phones with very poor success and their US market share has suffered as a consequence
The unsubsidized model seems to be prevalent in every geography outside of North America, but not within our borders.’a0 This is an interesting move though, as Google is aiming to cause upheaval in an already established market.
What are your thoughts – do you think the Nexus One will sell well?’a0 My thought is that it will sell like hotcakes outside the US, but not many unsubsidized units will ship on American soil.