Recent rumors have been suggesting the Search Giant plans to end the Nexus legacy, altering the naming scheme. The murmurs were vague and hard to wrap our heads around, but now a couple sources are claiming this is true… and that the next Google phones will be branded under the Pixel series.

To be more specific, these sources claim Google’s new handsets will be named Pixel and Pixel XL. Both are independent and one of them seems to have a great track record of information. The guys over at Android Police swear by them and multiple publications have said similar things now, so there’s a good chance of accuracy here.

As for these phones, the standard Pixel is said to be the 5-inch version, which has been so far code named as Sailfish. On the other hand, the Pixel XL is said to be the 5.5-inch Marlin.

Of course, this information only makes things more confusing… in every sense. What will happen with the Nexus brand? Nexus devices have always been known for featuring a Pure Google experience, getting updates first and serving as role models to other manufacturers. Does a possible name change imply this will no longer be the case?

For one, we have heard rumors that these new devices will have some features built over vanilla Android. That would be a huge change, but we suppose anything is possible now.

One of Android Police’s sources says there may be another reason, though – a marketing one. According to the internal source, the Pixel and Pixel XL are to be advertised as the first phones built by Google. But it’s hard to believe Google is making devices on its own now. Chances are they will still be made by HTC, but the branding will not showcase that.

So… what’s going on? We have no clue, but suppose there is a chance Google Pixel computers and tablet have been an introduction to a future in which Google has more control of the Nexus (now Pixel?) line. These products offer a Pure Google experience, as well as a design that goes with the Search Giant’s philosophy.

We also have to wonder how other manufacturers will feel about this. So far it has been a big win for phone makers to partner with Google. Will it be any good if their brand is not getting any recognition?

What do you think? Hit the comments to give us your 2 cents! And do keep in mind these are all rumors. No matter how much evidence there is, there is always a chance information is wrong, not to mention the possibility of future changes.