History and Background

One of the most compelling features of a Google phone is Google itself. The Silicon Valley search engine has grown into a search powerhouse that’s used by just about everyone who uses the Internet. It’s the default search engine in many Web browsers, which further contributes to its dominance. Google commands a substantial portion of search-engine market share in the United States—around 65 percent at this writing, which is more than quintuple that of its closest competitor (Yahoo).

It takes a trio of forces to get a mobile phone to market, with each one playing a different crucial role. Rounding out the trio are Google’s manufacturing partners (Motorola and HTC) and its U.S. carrier partner (Verizon Wireless).