Google's Andy Rubin steps aside as Android gets new leader

Android head Andy Rubin is stepping aside, and that could mean big changes for Google's mobile platform and for its Chrome operating system. Google CEO Larry Page announced the move in a blog post on Wednesday, saying Rubin will remain with the company but will take on a new role. Rubin, who is Google's senior vice president for mobile and digital content, joined Google in 2005, when the search giant acquired Android, then a startup company that Rubin had co-founded. Sundar Pichai Andy Rubin "The pace of innovation has never been greater, and Android is the most used mobile operating system in the world," Page wrote. "Having exceeded even the crazy ambitious goals we dreamed of for Android, and with a really strong leadership team in place, Andy's decided it's time to hand over the reins and start a new chapter at Google." Page said Sundar Pichai, Google's senior vice president of Chrome and Apps, will take Rubin's place and will lead both the Chrome and Android divisions. "Sundar has a talent for creating products that are technically excellent yet easy to use -- and he loves a big bet," wrote Page. "So while Andy's a really hard act to follow, I know Sundar will do a tremendous job doubling down on Android as we work to push the ecosystem forward." Related: JR Raphael: What will Andy Rubin's departure mean for Android? Industry analysts said they were surprised by the news, and some wonder whether Rubin decided himself to move on or if he was asked to step aside. Regardless of why he's leaving, this is a big shift for Android. Rubin brought Android to prominence on the global mobile stage, creating a two-horse race with Apple's iOS. With more than 60 partners, Android has become the most popular smartphone operating system in the U.S. "[Rubin has been] working his tail off on Android, and he's made it extremely successful," said Jack Gold, an analyst at J.Gold Associates. "I don't think anyone can say he hasn't been pretty damn successful.... They have become a major mobile leader. Could he have done it faster, better, smoother? Sure... but I haven't seen any huge mistakes." Gold said he doubted Rubin was pushed out. He speculated that Rubin probably wants to try his hand at something new. "Every so often these guys have to take a breath and say, 'I've done a really good job, but where do I go from here?'" Gold said. "He's got a lot of creative juices. He may want to go do some new things and start something else. They said he'll stay at Google. I'd be surprised if he left. He's got a lot of freedom and opportunities there."hijab woman photo montage for ipod light rock music radio for android slices for twitter for ipod alchemy android game for pc halo waypoint for android free face in hole free for iphone5 rat on a snowboard for iphone women jumpers dress suit for ipad old telephone ringtones for ipad hong kong drama for android