Although Google remains mum on the subject of its much-rumored branded handset, Digitimes reports the search giant is in the process of finalizing the device specifications, operating system, manufacturing contractor and operating partners, citing sources inside the Taiwan handset maker community. While most insider buzz has speculated the so-called gPhone will boast an EDGE solution developed by Texas Instruments, Digitimes says Google is now mulling a 3G handset with a chipset developed by Qualcomm. However, should Google opt for the 3G option, the change in platforms and related licensing issues would likely delay the gPhone launch until the first half of 2008, as opposed to its anticipated late 2007 debut. HTC is tipped as Google's manufacturing partner thanks to its expertise in ODM and brand business as well as its carrier relationships. Digitimes ads Google is still considering development of its own OS. For more on the latest gPhone buzz: - read this Digitimes article Related Articles: Google to launch gPhone in September Google in handset talks with operators Google debuts AdSense for Mobile Google brings AdWords to mobile search Google files mobile advertising patent Google developing mobile content search Report: Google shows vendors phone prototype