Google announced the Google Nexus Q at their Google I/O developer conference last year. The Google I/O 2013 developer conference kicks off tomorrow, and apparently, the Google Nexus Q will be a no-show.
First, the launch of the Google Nexus Q was delayed, then Google removed the device from their website. We really haven’t heard much about the device over the last few months.
The Initial Promise of Google Nexus Q
The Google Nexus Q was initially introduced as a social streaming media player, designed to stream content from Google Play and YouTube to your home entertainment system. It was a spherical device with a unique design, featuring a built-in amplifier to power external speakers and multiple ports for connectivity. The device was intended to be a hub for all your media needs, controlled via an Android device.
However, the Nexus Q faced criticism for its limited functionality and high price point compared to other streaming devices available in the market. Users and reviewers pointed out that while the design was innovative, the device lacked essential features that were already present in cheaper alternatives like the Roku or Apple TV. This feedback led Google to delay the launch of the Nexus Q, promising to enhance its capabilities.
Current Status and Future Prospects
According to the guys over at All Things D, Google will not be announcing any news about the Nexus Q at this year’s Google I/O. This suggests that Google may not have developed the device any further. Their original reason for withdrawing it from sale was that they wanted to improve the device after “initial feedback from users that they want Nexus Q to do even more than it does today.”
The absence of the Nexus Q from the Google I/O 2013 agenda raises questions about the future of the device. It is possible that Google has decided to shelve the project indefinitely, focusing instead on other hardware and software initiatives. The tech giant has a history of experimenting with various products and services, some of which never make it to the mainstream market.
For instance, Google has had more success with its Chromecast device, which offers similar streaming capabilities at a fraction of the cost. Chromecast has become a popular choice for users looking to stream content from their mobile devices to their TVs, thanks to its affordability and ease of use. This success might have influenced Google’s decision to put the Nexus Q on the back burner.
Whether or not we will see anything from Google on the Google Nexus Q in the future remains to be seen. The company has not made any official statements regarding the discontinuation of the device, leaving a sliver of hope for those who were excited about its potential. As soon as we get some more details, we will let you guys know.
In the meantime, Google continues to innovate in other areas, such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and smart home technology. The company’s focus seems to be shifting towards creating a more integrated ecosystem of devices and services, which could eventually include a revamped version of the Nexus Q or a similar product.
Source All Things D
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