As both HTC and Samsung have each recently announced the release of a version of their respective flagship smartphones with a stock version of Google (GOOG +3.71%) Android, many industry watchers are wondering why. Each of these companies has struggled to not only differentiate itself from Apple but also from other Android devices. With the release of these planned versions, it seems each is taking a step backwards.
In the video below, Fool.com contributor Doug Ehrman discusses both the motivations behind and ramifications of the move by each smartphone maker and what it could mean for the industry and for Google.
