After disappointing sales of the Nexus One Android phone, Google has officially given up on its mobile web store experiment.
In a blog post published just a short while ago, Google all but admitted that its web store -- and thus Nexus One sales -- has underperformed. The decision comes after multiple carriers dropped the Nexus One from their line-ups, including Verizon Wireless.
Here's what Google had to say about the web store:
"But, as with every innovation, some parts worked better than others. While the global adoption of the Android platform has exceeded our expectations, the web store has not. It’s remained a niche channel for early adopters, but it’s clear that many customers like a hands-on experience before buying a phone, and they also want a wide range of service plans to chose [sic] from."
Due to the failure of the web store, Google is making two major changes to its Nexus One and Android strategy. First, it is making the Nexus One more available to retailers. Second, it will eventually cease selling the Nexus One online, opting instead for an "online store window" to showcase a plethora of Android phones.
Despite the spin, today's announcement can't be considered anything less than an admission of failure. People weren't willing to buy a phone they couldn't play with first, and Nexus One sales suffered consequently. Apple must be jumping for joy right now.