Who will control Android devices?

[engin]

Hi all,

I have some questions about how providers/manufacturers may intend to control Android.

Can handset makers/wireless providers lock in their own apps in Android devices (not to be removed from the handset by the customer, like they do today)? How much control do they have over the apps that the device is shipped with? Also, is sim-level restriction and other infrastructural limitations possible with Android devices?

Thanks in advance for the responses.

[engin]

I understand that from a business/marketing stand point, we cannot know. However, I am also wondering through a technical/infrastructural perspective, whether the platform has anything that enables/encourages/disables for the carriers and the manufacturers.

[engin]

Thanks Vincent, let us know in this thread if you can find out more about it.

[EclipsedExistence]

Seeing as how the G1 is locked to T-Mobile, I think it is safe to say that sim level restrictions are possible

[remister]

I-Robot will control ANDROIDS!