Google: we're cool with Exchange on Google-branded Android phones

Okay, this gets a bit confusing, so bear with us. Back when HTC first unveiled the Magic, the company said that any Android device with a customized build -- and that includes adding support for Microsoft Exchange -- has to drop the "with Google" logo as per Google's rules. Indeed, that notion seemed to be validated by the all the international Android phones that had Exchange but no branding. Cut to present day and the T-Mobile's myTouch 3G, which looks to have both the "with Google" backing and Exchange support, contrary to previous assertions. Did the search engine giant soften its policy? We spoke with a company representative who told us, surprisingly, that it has "never been Google's policy" to deprive its branded devices of Exchange support, and that if another phone maker wants to add it and keep that logo plastered on the phone, that's A-OK. In all honesty, we never really put too much stock into the Google logo on the phone, but if it's really just been one huge misunderstanding that's prevented our G1 from having Exchange, well, we're gonna be quite nonplussed for many weeks to come.

[(Unverified) Posted Jul 7th 2009 7:17PM]

Does this mean the HTC Hero can now be Google-branded? Wheee.

[SParklingCYaNide Posted Jul 7th 2009 10:38PM]

That's Correct! That Also means that there's a Very Good chance the Hero will also land on T-Mobile now even tho they only want "Google" branded phones since they will have Exchange also now!

[(Unverified) Posted Jul 7th 2009 7:31PM]

It would be nice to see HTC release the Sense on the MyTouch 3G. =P
I hope so because I don't want to do the hack trick to get the Hero Rom and if not, I guess I'll end up doing it anyway. HAHA.

[(Unverified) Posted Jul 7th 2009 7:52PM]

So.... yes there will be native Exchange support on the G1? Not that I mind Touchdown...

[(Unverified) Posted Jul 7th 2009 9:32PM]

What does the google branding actually do that is so special? I am interested in the HTG Hero, if it is coming to AT&T, I have looked around but never saw any sort of list as to what is and isnt added with the branding.