Google have always stuck to the 'behind the scene' software side of gadgets. However, now the Android platform maker seems to have decided to take the main stage. There are reports that a Google Mobile Phone is expected to land in mobile phone town early next year. The search-engine creator had reportedly had plans of releasing the handheld into the market by the end of 2009. But schedules seem to have slipped.

Nothing has been mentioned as to who will be making the hardware for the Google smartphone. There are rumours that HTC might be a probable candidate. However, sources say that a Korean company will be doing the honours. Samsung is already making parts for the Apple iPhone. Therefore it is unlikely that Google will involve Samsung in their mobile phone venture. Thus, LG seems like another potential partner for manufacturing the Google mobile handset.

Whether the mobile phone will be a candybar, or slider or clamshell is still not known. Whatever, be the form factor, the Google mobile handset is surely going to create a stir, when it hits the market.