Forget Nexus 6 Release Date, Android Phones Will Soon Showcase Pure Google Apps & Features

Google has reportedly approved the use of Huawei’s in-house Kirin application processor to power the 2015 Nexus smartphone, replacing the Nexus 6. China’s Huawei has been widely rumoured to take over from Motorola in assembling the native Android flagship phone. (IN PHOTO) A Google logo is seen at the garage where the company was founded on Google's 15th anniversary in Menlo Park, California September 26, 2013. (Photo: REUTERS / Stephen Lam)

Leaked Nexus 6 information and images have been raining down lately, largely hinting about its killer specs and power features, but the specific release date details about the device remain elusive.

Thankfully, Android fans don't need to wait for the Nexus 5 sequel just to get a feel of the pure Android experience that the phone will deliver. Google has plans to make all Android devices, specifically the smartphones, to look, feel and function like the Nexus 6.

If a new report by The Information is to be believed, all upcoming devices from manufacturers like Samsung, LG, HTC, Sony and Lenovo will be required to build phones and tablets that will show off the native powers of Android.

Essentially, by mandating the inclusion of the five features below, Google is paving the way for the new batch of Android mobile phones that for the moment are the next best thing users can get while waiting for the Nexus 6.

Powered by Android

This declaration during a device boot up is already implemented and was seen with the Galaxy S5. According to The Information, Powered by Android is now a phrase to regularly greet users each time they power down and up their devices.

More prominent Google Search

OEMs are also required by Google to spotlight the Google Search functions, which should give a more Nexus-like interface to Android-powered devices.

OK Google

To ensure that Google Search takes centre stage in all Android phones and tablet computers, device vendors must also activate the 'OK Google' hot word. In doing so, Google voice search will be a default function on all Android kits in the same manner that it is on Nexus and Google Play Edition handsets.

20 Google apps

While phone makers are not forbidden to stuff their devices with branded applications, many of which are mere duplicates of Google apps such Chrome and Gmail, they also must reserve space for the corresponding native Android applications.

As many as 20 Google apps will be preloaded with the upcoming Android devices, The Information said on its report.

Home screen placement

And these same applications must occupy an easy to see and reach spot on any devices, which Google defined as the Home screen. This condition is not optional though the search giant allows the placement of a folder to hold the app icons so as not to clutter the device Home screen.

These fresh Google impositions can actually be turned down by device makers and still use Android but their products will be restricted from accessing key services such as Google Play. As for those who will fully comply with the conditions, Google promises revenue sharing scheme, The Information reported.

It is unclear if full rollout of the new Android terms of use will take effect before or after the Nexus 6 release date, which likely will happen on October or November 2014 alongside the Nexus 8 or 9 and Android 5.0 or L.