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Verizon Wireless will begin offering Google’s Nexus One smartphone on March 23, with Vodafone selling the device in April according to industry news sources.
Neowin cited an anonymous Google employee for the Verizon launch of the Google Android 2.1-based Nexus One, which sources such as Unwired View said has passed FCC inspection for use on Verizon’s CDMA network.
Specifically, the FCC has just approved an HTC-built CDMA smartphone with the model name PB99300, numbers putting it in close proximity with the GSM/HSPA version of the Nexus One, which is coded PB99100.
The Telegraph, meanwhile, said the Nexus One is coming to Europe in April despite earlier plans to roll out there in March.
A Google spokersperson told eWEEK, “When we introduced Nexus One, we announced that Verizon would be a carrier partner and the device would be available in the spring. However, we haven’t announced a specific date yet.”
For Google, launching the Nexus One on Verizon Wireless’ leading wireless network is key to gaining more traction on the mobile Web, as it will enable more users to use Google applications and see more ads.
T-Mobile’s 3G coverage has been spotty at best, though the phone itself has also had issues. Verizon, meanwhile, helped the Motorola Droid become the hottest selling smartphone based on Google’s Android operating system and far fewer coverage problems have been reported for this device.
While not impossible, a March 23 date for a Verizon-subsidized Nexus One might be an early blessing.
When Google launched the Nexus One from its Webstore Jan. 5, Google officials pledged Verizon Wireless and Vodafone would begin offering the devices in the spring.
Currently, users may buy the device unlocked through Google’s Webstore for $529 and with a two-year contract from T-Mobile for $179.
In other good Android news, the Android and Me blog said every Android phone released in the United States will be upgraded to Android 2.1.
However, some Android phones will require a wipe when they are upgraded to Android 2.1 and a PC-based install for upgrading to Android 2.1 instead of receiving over-the-air updates.
See other details about these updates here on TechMeme.