Google appears set to rescue HTC from its continuing slide as rumors coming from China indicate that the device maker from Taiwan will be tasked to assemble not one but two Nexus devices that likely are scheduled for release date later this 2016. If true, HTC will join Huawei and LG as Google's Nexus manufacturing partners this year.
Tech blog site XDA Developers reported this week the likelihood of Google expanding its existing Nexus portfolio, which if rumors are to believed will consist of a 7-inch vanilla Android tab and two smartphones coming from Huawei and LG. Likely to join is floundering HTC with its two Nexus devices given the codenames T50 and T55.
The same XDA report, which pointed to long-time gadget leaker LlabTooFeR as source, indicated that HTC's Nexus will unbox in 5-inch and 5.5-inch screen profile. No further details were provided.
However, checking back on HTC's track record as one of the more reputable Android device makers the following specs and features could be expected if indeed the company had inked a deal with Google:
Solid and metal build
Google jump from plastic to premium metal with the Huawei Nexus 6P and it looks like there is no turning back for the tech giant, which indicates that HTC returning to the Nexus fold makes real sense. The Taiwanese firm, after all, is well known for issuing Android devices with build, beauty and durability that are comparable to Apple's flagship iPhones.
HTC's hero phones are among the first Androids to boast of unibody design that made use of metal. It's safe to assume that Google handpicked HTC for its Nexus 2016 project with big consideration on this credential.
Nexus devices that highlight multimedia features
Among the key features of HTC flagship devices are the multimedia functions, underscored by the front-located stereo speakers and high-end audio chips in earlier HTC One M model series. A Nexus phone that will roll out from HTC's production lines will most likely unpack these killer features.
Pure Android
It will be the delight of hardcore Android fans to unbox and wield a high-specced HTC smartphone that runs on vanilla Android. This feature alone should excite millions of Android users and potentially boost HTC's chance of regaining its old glory.
Google is rumored to reveal its Android version using the company's annual I/O Developers Conference either in May or June 2016. The occasion should shed reveal too if HTC will be part of the Nexus 2016 release date plans.