Google fires Android development with handset giveaway

Device Seeding Program targets loyal studios

Concerned many of its developers aren't up to speed with Android 2.0, Google has emailed studios informed them they can expect to receive a free Motorola Droid or Nexus One handset presently as part of the firm's Device Seeding Program.

The program is designed to ensure Android Market isn't hampered by fragmentation issues, with some developers still reportedly working with older handsets.

Indeed, the company's largesse has already been seen with giveaways at the Mobile World Congress - where PocketGamer snagged at Nexus One - and as will be forthcoming at the Game Developers Conference.

However, Google isn't advocating a free for all.

There are set conditions that have to be met before a developer is eligible for the general Device Seeding Program - namely that they have an app on the store rated three stars or more, and has been downloaded at least 5,000 times.

Viva l'difference

The handset each studio will receive will differ, too; US based developers will receive either a Droid or Nexus One, apparently at random, while outfits in Canada, the EU, Hong Kong, Lichtenstein, Norway Switzerland, Singapore, or Taiwan, will be handed a Nexus One.

Those outside these set territories will get nothing.

"A thriving developer community is an important part of creating a better mobile experience for users around the world," Google said in a statement.

"We hope that offering devices to developers will make it easier for them to create and test great applications. This is inline with other efforts to support developers, which also includes our Android Developer Labs World Tour and our upcoming participation at the Game Developers Conference."

Those studios worthy should already have received an email detailing just which handset they're entitled to, developers advised to agree to Google's relevant terms and conditions before the device can be shipped.

[source: TechCrunch]

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