[crunchykeith]

This seems to fall in line with Google's Android strategy of moving functionality out of the core OS and into Apps. This makes updates easier and faster because users only have to download the new version of the app and not update the OS.

[jmcatani]

I totally agree with your point. Not only does it bypass the need for an OS update, but it also allows more consistent experiences across all android devices.

While the cynic in me is deathly afraid of Google having complete control over my digital interactions, I find myself in favor of a Google-controlled experience. Google Now is making contextual computing possible in a way that no other company is remotely capable of bringing to the market. For the time being, I invite Google to control Android this way.

[josteink]

out of aosp and into proprietary Google apps.

that's always a bad move. and they've been doing it a lot lately.

[freehunter]

It depends on how you view it. From a FOSS standpoint, yeah it might be a bad thing. From a user experience standpoint, being able to get new features for your existing phone without having to install a custom ROM is a pretty big bonus.

[hayksaakian]

The problem is that google presents you with a false choice.

They COULD contribute their changes to AOSP, AND include them in a separate app, but choose not to.

[nileshtrivedi]

They can disclose the source (without a license to distribute it). That'll go a long way in satisfying the FOSS audience, even if not perfect.

[josteink]

From a user experience standpoint, being able to get new features for your existing phone without having to install a custom ROM is a pretty big bonus.

Which ironically is something you now don't get if you bought a Galaxy Nexus 18 months ago.

[freehunter]

You can get everything that has been decoupled from the OS from the Play Store. That was my entire point, until you tried to derail it. The point is that upgrading the OS won't matter, because you can just update the app.

[pwf]

The launcher already was an app, right?

[myko]

It was not available in the Play Store as a separate download, no - it was bundled with the OS.