Google will reportedly offer the Nexus One by invitation only, a strange strategy at a time when Android is fighting Apple’s iPhone to gain market share. Why seed the Android 2.1-based Apple iPhone challenger to Google employees, with some of them leaking photos and giving gadget geeks opportunities to play with the phone, and then only selectively offer it? It’s certainly not wise at a time when customers continue to weigh Android devices such as the Motorola Droid versus the iPhone. The market has not yet matured to the point where most consumers are strictly looking for the next Android or iPhone without mulling a device from the other company.
– News Analysis: Engadget reported something Dec. 23 that frankly boggles the mind. Citing a tipster, the site claims Google’s Nexus One smartphone will be available by invitation only.

EWEEK has already explored the idea
that Google could let consumers purchase the Nexus One and pick their
carri…