With so many Android handsets out there, one is spoilt for choice and it was only until Google introduced Google Play Edition handsets that customers who wanted the stock Android experience but didn’t agree with the Nexus hardware had more options. Unfortunately it looks like the Google Play Edition handsets could be ending their run.
According to reports, it seems that Google is no longer listing the HTC One M8 Google Play Edition handset under its “Phones & Tablets” page. In fact it seems that if you wanted to find the device, you would have to go to its page via a direct link, hinting that Google is slowly trying to phase it out.
This follows a series of Google Play Edition handsets that Google has ended, like the Samsung Galaxy S4 and the Moto G, just to name a few. That being said we’re not sure what the future holds for the Google Play Edition program. Previously we had heard rumors about the Android Silver program that could take over the Nexus lineup, but that program is reportedly on hold due to a lukewarm response from OEMs.
In any case it seems that if you wanted stock Android on your smartphone, the alternatives are to either purchase a Nexus handset or flash a stock Android ROM onto your phone. Either way we will be keeping our eyes peeled for more information regarding Google Play Edition handsets, so check back with us later for the details.
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