So, just developing a free operating system wasn't enough. They have to develop an operating system hardware and give both away for free (which is sure to make their Android OEM partners real happy) in order to make $10 to $20 on each Android owner over the two years they use their device.

Sounds like an awesome business. Good luck with that.

The thing is, though, . How much more free does Google think it can make them? Are they going to start paying us to use them?

Owning the consumer interface means having control over future monetization opportunities. Search, maps, and Google Wallet alone would give the company a treasure trove of data including personal, location and shopping data. The more data Google has, the more they will be able to algorithmically target consumers with advertising. ... With purchasing information, Google could target ads based on purchase history.

HOLY CRAP, THE MACALOPE JUST SWITCHED HIS SEARCH ENGINE TO BING.