The downvotes might be because you're slightly mistaken about the level of control that Google possesses. While the code base of Android itself is open source,

The downvotes might be because you're slightly mistaken about the level of control that Google possesses. While the code base of Android itself is open source, that means little because Google apps such as the Gmail, Maps and the all important Play Store are not part of AOSP code base. If a manufacturer wants to include those (and lets face it, they have to) they need to agree to several onerous terms and conditions that Google stipulates. An example of such a condition is that if a manufacturer makes any phone that includes Google apps, they must not manufacture a phone that runs without it. This is why Amazon had such a hard time finding a manufacturer for their Fire tablet/phone. As for skinning, Samsung can only do that because Google explicitly allows it. Lastly, I feel that someone should have pointed this out instead of downvoting you.