Google sorry for Nexus 4 shortage, labels LG 'erratic'

Google: Sorry for Nexus 4 shortage
Elusive: the Google Nexus 4

Google has apologised to customers in the UK over the delays and stock shortages of its latest smartphone, the Google Nexus 4.

Launched back in October, the Nexus 4 has been difficult to get hold of worldwide with initial stock selling out in a matter of minutes and customers left waiting weeks, if not months for their new handset to arrive.

Dan Cobley, Google UK and Ireland's MD has now posted an open letter on his Google+ page, apologising to those waiting for a Nexus 4 to arrive.

Supplies are scarce and erratic

Cobley's letter reads: "I know that what you are going through is unacceptable and we are all working through the nights and weekends to resolve this issue.

"Supplies from the manufacturer are scarce and erratic, and our communication has been flawed. I can offer an unreserved apology for our service and communication failures in this process.

"For those that originally received a 3-5 days shipping estimate, your orders are now in process for fulfilment. You can expect an email notification early this week which will include tracking information. Although you will be initially charged in full, you will receive a credit for the shipping charge soon after.

"For others that received pre-Christmas shipping estimates, we anticipate processing your orders for fulfilment this week.

"I realise that the people who ordered the Nexus 4 so early are among our most committed and loyal users and we are doing all we can to put things right."

LG to blame?

Although there's no clear cut blame, Cobley does highlight that there are issues with the manufacturer, which in terms of the Nexus 4 is LG.

He also highlights communication failings between Google and LG, which is pretty embarrassing for both parties.

The good news for consumers is that orders are being processed and handsets are on their way, hopefully arriving just in time for Christmas.

From Google+ via XDA

TOPICS
John McCann
Former Global Managing Editor

TechRadar's former Global Managing Editor, John has been a technology journalist for more than a decade, and over the years has built up a vast knowledge of the tech industry. He’s interviewed CEOs from some of the world’s biggest tech firms, visited their HQs, and appeared on live TV and radio, including Sky News, BBC News, BBC World News, Al Jazeera, LBC, and BBC Radio 4.

Latest in Nexus Phones
From Nexus to Android One: a brief history of purist Android phones
Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P could get Google Assistant soon
Best Google Nexus 4 case: 10 to choose from
Best Google Nexus 4 case: 10 to choose from
Google Nexus 3 coming with Ice Cream Sandwich - sounds tasty
Google Nexus 3 specs detailed
Google Nexus S2 on the horizon?
Google planning further Nexus phones?
Android 2.3.3 incoming for the Google Nexus S
Android 2.3.3 update rolling out to Nexus S and Nexus One
Latest in News
Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses
Samsung's rumored smart specs may be launching before the end of 2025
Apple iPhone 16 Review
The latest iPhone 18 leak hints at a major chipset upgrade for all four models
Quordle on a smartphone held in a hand
Quordle hints and answers for Monday, March 24 (game #1155)
NYT Strands homescreen on a mobile phone screen, on a light blue background
NYT Strands hints and answers for Monday, March 24 (game #386)
NYT Connections homescreen on a phone, on a purple background
NYT Connections hints and answers for Monday, March 24 (game #652)
Quordle on a smartphone held in a hand
Quordle hints and answers for Sunday, March 23 (game #1154)