WSJ confirms Google's plans to open retail stores

Just a few days ago, we first heard the rumors that Google may be looking into opening a number of retail store locations in major metropolitan areas in time for the holiday season. We first wondered whether Google has even proven it can handle its own stores, but the rumors say Google is recruiting outside help in the process. Now, we're getting more confirmation from the Wall Street Journal that the retail stores are in fact a reality.

The Wall Street Journal has seemingly confirmed earlier reports that Google is working on opening its own chain of stores, but it has not confirmed the timeframe for when they would open. Earlier reports said that the stores would open in time for the holiday season this year, but the new report says that Google may not open the stores this year, although it seems likely the stores would be open in time for the official Google Glass launch expected next year. A source even said that as recently as last year, there was an internal debate at Google whether to open retail stores that don't feature Motorola devices or use Motorola as the retail arm of Google.

Google has been expanding its hardware and branded hardware selection, so if we do see a Google Store, it would likely sell everything from Android devices (though it is unclear if it would be Nexus only, Nexus & Motorola, or all Android manufacturers), to Google TV, Chromebooks, and eventually Google Glass.