Google to release its own smartphone this year

Did Google hit its head, black out and wake up thinking it's Apple?

Probably not, but let's back up a minute. Everyone knows the Android user experience varies from device to device based on each smartphone makers tweaks and customizations. And for years, Google has relied on Nexus devices, also built by outside handset manufacturers, to give Android users a smartphone experience closest to what Android envisioned when it built its software. 

However, according to new reports, that wasn't good enough. Google will soon be building its own smartphone, not relying on other smartphone makers to deliver the goods. So what do we know about this new smartphone? And when will it make an appearance? In IT Blogwatch, we get the 411 without asking Google Now what's up.

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