The only way this even sort of makes sense is if Google's primary goal is to force a dramatic drop in cellular data plans. A cheap, desirable phone that's not

The only way this even sort of makes sense is if Google's primary goal is to force a dramatic drop in cellular data plans. A cheap, desirable phone that's not locked in to a carrier via a contract could, potentially, force intense competition on rates. The phone is removed from the equation when selecting a carrier, and consumers can change carriers on a whim with no penalty. Service has to improve and prices have to drop. I don't know though. That looks a little too big picture for an actual business strategy.