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Is Google a good OEM? This famous developer thinks so
August 11, 2025
Google’s way of handling the Nexus program was an interesting one. Manufacturers would bring their ideas to the table, only to let the Search Giant select the right partner each year. Google worked with HTC, Samsung, LG, Motorola, HUAWEI, and ASUS to make some of the most desirable smartphones and tablets this industry has seen.
Things changed once the Mountain View tech giant decided to flip the table over and take charge of things. Now they run both the software and hardware sides of the spectrum. Needless to say Google Pixel devices have been outstanding, but how good is Google as an OEM, really? Can they meet the expectations set by experienced manufacturers?
Popular developer Francisco Franco believes so, for a few reasons. Francisco has worked as an independent developer, mostly with custom kernels for Nexus devices, collaborations, and his very own applications. Due to his background, he can give us a much more in depth and refined explanation of what Google is doing right. Let’s take a look at his explanation as to why “things are looking hot for Google as a phone OEM.”
Development and optimizing performance
It is arguably believe by many Android a fans that Nexus devices were the best when it came to software (at least within the Android world). These devices offered the pure Android experience, not to mention the fact that they were the first to get updates. It is also true most of us have not taken a look at the kernel. There are differences in the code most of us would not catch, and Francisco’s highlights are only some examples of that.
Battery life optimizations
Once you buy a device and test its battery performance, the next step is to settle with results and learn to adapt to the experienced battery life. If anything changes, it’s usually for the worse, as battery life tends to deteriorate with time and use. It’s refreshing to see Google improving things in the long run.
Improving the kernel binder
Now, here is where things get a little more confusing… I will leave it at that. Those who get it, get it.
What do you think?
Plenty of factors come into making a good smartphone, and though Google’s Pixel devices haven’t been perfect, they get pretty darn close to it. The Pixel XL got an 8.9 review from us, which is pretty high. In fact, our only complaints are regarding the design (which is subjective), the lack of OIS (which many of you don’t mind) and the high price tag.
Other than that, we say Google has done a great job building this handset, and it seems they continue doing a good job improving it. Is Google looking like a great OEM? That’s for sure.
Have you noticed any improvements since Google stepped up and started making its own devices? What do you see in the Pixel that was uncommon with the Nexus line-up.
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