[zumtar]

Yes it will. I am fully aware that the handsets are bought contract-free from Google (I am a long time Nexus user and purchaser), I am not suggesting that the carrier will replace or repair the handset.

The handset that attaches to a GSM network has to conform to many standards set out by the GSMA (GSM association) as well as many other local certification bodies and associations (one example is the handset must have the ability to call emergency services).

If complaints are made to the technical department of the carrier being used, the calls will eventually be escalated to a vendor/manufacturer of Google's size.

I've worked for various different cellular providers and I have personally seen such tickets.

[Leynos]

It does seem counter-intuitive though. I would never have thought to do this. The only time I would think to contact the mobile operator is if the phone was running a custom firmware provided by the operator.