The Fire phone was an epic disaster for Amazon that has been discontinued. But while it doesn’t look like Amazon wants to build a second-gen Fire Phone anytime soon, the company does seem to have a Plan B in place for stealing Android from Google.
DON’T MISS: Tina Fey returns to SNL and mocks Sarah Palin in this must-see clip
Specifically, Amazon is negotiating with Android device makers to replace Google’s services with its own at factory level. According to The Information, Amazon seems to be looking for third parties that would make a phone that would resemble the Kindle Fire tablets when it comes to software.
The tech news site doesn’t specify what Android OEMs are negotiating such a deal with Amazon, but the online retailer is apparently keen on having a firm presence on mobile devices that goes beyond just merely providing certain apps to shoppers.
An increasing number of reports have shown over the years that the iPhone is a massive source of income for ad-based businesses and online stores. But Amazon isn’t necessarily eyeing the high end of the market, as emerging markets such as India would be similarly valuable if a prime placement can be secured.
It’s not clear when, and if, any Android OEM would risk upsetting Google by creating an Android device that’s infused with Amazon services to the core. After all, Google has firm rules in place that ensure its services, including search, get the best possible placement on the home screen of a device. In return, Google also lets Android OEMs preload the popular services users seek in an Android device, including the Google Play Store.
The Information’s full post is available at the source link (behind a paywall).
