The Google Phone has been speculated to launch for months but is now closer than ever to being released to the public. According to DigiTimes, Google will definitely launch its own-branded handset, although the company still has to finalize the handset’s specifications, operating system, production contractor and operating partners.

Many rumors have stated that Google will most likely use Texas Instruments’ EDGE solution; however the latest information has indicated that Google is also considering the possibility of launching a 3G handset that would make the phone available to more carriers.

The new handset could reach markets within the next year offering consumers free subscriptions by combining advertisements with its search engine, e-mail and Web browser software applications. At this point, Google has declined to comment, but has stated that it is working with partners to migrate its software applications from the traditional internet to mobile devices.

Google’s success will be determined by the way consumers react to idea of having intrusive advertising instead of the fees usually expected from mobile carriers.

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