Google Tests Direct Sales With Smartphone

Google began selling a smartphone directly to consumers through its online store, a revival of a strategy that could be a prelude to direct sales of other devices such as tablets.

The Internet company began selling the Galaxy Nexus, made by Samsung Electronics Co., for $399 through its Google Play store. The handset, one of many rivals to Apple hit iPhone, is unlocked -- meaning it doesn't come with a wireless contract and can work on multiple carrier networks. People can insert a working AT&T or T-Mobile SIM card to obtain wireless service for the device, which runs the latest version of Google's Android operating system and includes its Chrome mobile-Web browser. The same phone is available for around $200 for anyone signing a two-year contract with Verizon Wireless or SprintNextel.