Google is software, not hardware oriented
It knows the future is in ensuring their solutions are available on multiple platforms, through multiple means. That's what sets them aside from the competition.
The Chromebook project is interesting, but again it feels like an entry point to what Google really wants to promote: cloud computing via Google services.
Their "default phones" were handled by HTC and Samsung in the past. Now the next one might be from Motorola. In the end, the hardware is just a means to an end: getting Android out there and claiming more enthusiasts who want a mobile solution they can adapt to their own desires.
I regret not investing in Google and it's user-empowering vision back in 2004, like I'm sure Microsoft regrets not listening to Bill Gates saying they needed to move quickly to online apps before he retired.
