Google’s next Nexus devices will come from multiple OEMs

It looks like we’re going to have a choice by the time Google ships its next Nexus phone later this year. According to a report by WSJ, Google plans to work with multiple OEMs for the next Android Jelly Bean-powered Nexus devices, which will be sold unlocked directly to consumers.

The difference with this new step? Potentially huge for consumers, mainly because we appreciate being able to choose. That means that if you didn’t like the Nexus phone that Samsung built, you might like what HTC or Motorola came out with.

Of course, the downside on this new deal is that you’re going to have to pay full price for an unlocked phone that’s unsubsidized by a carrier. Of course, that could be good too, especially if you don’t want to be tied down by another two-year contract if you don’t need one. And because the software updates don’t have to course through a carrier, the new Nexus phones will be getting the latest version of Android faster.

The report didn’t name which OEMs they’re currently working with, but current partnerships include Motorola, Samsung, Sony, HTC and Asus.