Google, Inc. (NASDAQ:
GOOG) is preparing a new weapon in its fight against Apple, Inc. (NASDAQ:
AAPL) in the consumer electronics space.
The search giant has applied for the development of a next generation personal communication device that would work on home WiFi networks. Testing will include functional testing of all subsystems, including WiFi and Bluetooth radio.
The devices are in the prototyping phase and will be modified prior to final compliance testing, according to a filing with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Google has begun the operation on Jan.15, 2012 and expects to complete it on July 15, 2012.
Google would test 102 devices at the homes of Google employees. The filing says that the device will utilizes a standard WiFi module. The testing off the device is aimed at the throughput and stability of the home WiFi networks that will support the device as well as the basic functionality of the device.
It is unclear what Google is up to, but it clearly seems to be another strategy to diversify its business from search. It already started diversifying itself when it launched Android operating system for smartphones and tablets.
Android has been extremely successful and is giving head-to-head competition against Apple's iOS that run the flagship iPhone and iPads. During the three months ending in December, Android ranked as the top smartphone platform with 47.3 percent market share, up 2.5 percentage points from September. Apple came second capturing 29.6 percent of the smartphone market, according to ComScore.
Google is now increasingly focusing on the consumer electronics space, which is witnessing rapid growth with new devices and advanced technologies. In May, Google launched Android@Home that allows Android applications to connect and communicate with devices in the home. The technology was shown to control light switches and wirelessly transmit music throughout the house, rivaling Apple's AirPlay and Sonos streaming system.
Rumor mills are guessing that Google's new effort could be a new home entertainment device tied to Android@Home. Since Google already sells books, music and movies, it is not surprising that Google is making hardware to play them, just like Apple.
Google would also take advantage of the assets and technical expertise of Motorola Mobility, which is being acquired by the search giant for $12.5 billion, and manufacture its own products – a deviation from its current strategy of using third-party manufacturers hardware to deploy its software. The move would partly answer fragmentation issues with Android ecosystem.
So whatever is the upcoming product, Google has set the ball rolling and triggered the anticipation among the technology geeks.