[abvdasker]

This time will maybe probably actually be different despite Google's short strategic attention span. Seems to me that the main difference between then and now is that Google is probably less concerned about alienating the other Android device OEMs now that Android is more entrenched.

To speculate a little more wildly it's possible Google's motive is also to push the current Android manufacturers to "up their game" in the same way Google Fiber may have been a subtle threat to internet service providers.

[moh_maya]

also, Samsung has Tizen as a hedge / card against Android; so this may also be Google building up its leverage.

As you suggest, perhaps this iteration of hardware will be like Microsoft Surface. Well built, slightly more pricey hardware that set the bar for the industry..?