Google cancels Verizon Nexus One, BlackBerry 6 coming Q3 2010

Verizon Nexus One canceled

When it was announced early this year, the Nexus One smartphone was planned for release on the Verizon network in spring 2010. But on Monday, Google quietly canceled the CDMA version of its smartphone.

Google updated its official Nexus One blog to recommend users instead preorder the new Droid Incredible from HTC, set to be released on April 29. The post called the Android-powered phone "a cousin of the Nexus One."

When contacted by AppleInsider Monday, a Google spokesperson provided the following statement: "We won’t be selling a Nexus One with Verizon, and this is a reflection of the amazing innovation happening across the open Android ecosystem. Verizon Wireless customers who want an Android phone with the power of the Nexus One can get the Droid Incredible by HTC."

The Nexus One was released earlier this year as a GSM handset for T-Mobile. It can be bought unlocked and contract-free for $529. Like a number of other Android phones, it was dubbed as a potential "iPhone killer."

Previously, users who went to the official Nexus One site seeking a Verizon-compatible handset were told the device was "coming soon." Those who couldn't wait were advised to purchase a Motorola Droid, another smartphone based on Google's Android mobile operating system.

Despite a great deal of buzz surrounding its announcement, the Nexus One managed to sell an estimated 20,000 units in its first week, well behind not only Apple's iPhone, but also competing Android-based handsets. The myTouch 3G, also on T-Mobile's network, sold an estimated 60,000 in its first week, while the Motorola Droid with Verizon sold 250,000 units.

BlackBerry 6 coming next quarter

RIM co-CEO Mike Lazardis announced during an analyst call on Monday that BlackBerry 6, the next platform for the company's handsets, will be available in the third quarter of calendar 2010. According to Engadget, analysts who attended the event in person were showed a touchscreen interface, though the platform will be available for both touch and non-touch devices.

Lazardis also revealed that RIM wants every device in their portfolio to eventually run BlackBerry 6, but not everything that is available on the market today will be upgradeable. Lazardis reportedly said that the company will do their best to provide updates for users.