Google has apparently started requiring its OEM partners to add an Android logo to boot screens. The move comes on the heels of the latest KitKat design guidelines which require OEMs to flat-down their UI designs and change the color of icons in the status bar to white.
The “Powered by Android” logo will soon be visible in many devices this year, though it’s unclear whether this is mandated for OEMs which use Google Managed Services (GMS) like Play Store and Maps, or not. Some handset makers like those based in China (such as Xiaomi and Meizu) don’t sell their products with preloaded Google apps and services; chances are they’ll be excluded from this initiative.
We guess it’s kinda fair that Google requires something in return for offering many of its products and services for free…
[Via: Geek.com]