In a somewhat surprising move, Motorola has just put Google’s Chromecast streaming HDMI dongle up for sale on its website. It might not be that surprising considering Motorola is owned by Google, but so far it has attempted to stay from an image of being totally dominated by the tech giant.
Of course, the appearance of the device on Motorola’s store might mean nothing at all aside from an additional venue to purchase Chromecast. Not that it’s hard to find sellers these days. After the initial hype that saw the streaming device quickly sell out in just a day, Google has stocked up on the device. There are even various retailers offering it, which somewhat leads to the impression that the Chromecast is no longer selling like pancakes the way it used to. Which is why its sudden appearance in Motorola’s catalog is somewhat unexpected.
This news might reignite rumors of a pure Google smartphone manufactured by Motorola coming soon. Google has so far not put out a Motorola-made Nexus device in order to project the image of impartiality, opting to go with LG twice in a row. But no one would probably mind if Google played favorites just once, considering the success of the Motorola Moto X, which probably comes close. Interestingly, there isn’t yet a Google Play Edition of the Moto X sold directly by Google. Although an unlockable Developer Edition is indeed available from Motorola, the two are not exactly the same.
Whatever their reasons and underlying motivations may be, Google Chromecast seems likely to remain in Motorola’s accessories lineup. The price remains the same as well and is available for the same $35 as it is from Google Play.
VIA: SlashGear
It’s a partnership just like Sol Republic and all the different case makers that have products for sale on their site.