When Google launched the Nexus One, it set out to revolutionize the way people purchase handsets - a change that has been shown to the door as quickly as it was ushered in. The search giant announced in a blog post this morning that it would gradually stop selling mobile devices online, instead favoring traditional outlets.

Although the company is pleased with the adoption of Android, its online store hasn't fared nearly as well, standing merely as a niche channel for early adopters. Google said that customers simply prefer a hands-on experience when buying a phone - a safe notion, we reckon.

As such, the company plans a global rollout of the model it uses in Europe, where it offers the Nexus One through existing stores. Once the Nexus One is available through more retailers, Google will axe its Web-based operation, using it solely as an online store window to showcase Android phones.