Yesterday's news that Walmart was preparing to sell Google's Nexus One was apparently misguided. When the phone showed up on Walmart's cell phone Web site, it appeared that Google's exclusive direct-to-consumer online retail strategy for the Nexus One was falling apart.
However, late yesterday a Walmart spokesman told the Christian Science Monitor that the problem was due to a technical error.
"Sorry to disappoint but we have no plans to carry Nexus One in Walmart stores or online at Walmart.com at this time. Due to a technical error, this item erroneously was displayed on our site. We're working with our partner Let's Talk to have it removed as quickly as possible, and apologize for any confusion," wrote Ravi Jariwala, WalMart spokesman, in an e-mail to the Monitor.
Many have questioned Google's entrance into the retail market as of late. The Internet giant has endured a rash of complaints from customers leveling charges of poor or non-existent customer service for the Nexus One.
Google currently sells the Android-based Nexus One exclusively on its own Web site, where customers can choose between a locked device or a subsidized model with a two-year contract from T-Mobile USA.