In an effort to exert tighter control over its Android operating system and become a greater competitor to Apple's iPhone, Google announced that it plans on purchasing Motorola Mobility Holdings, Inc. for $12.5 Billion in cash.
As of now, while the Android OS was created by Google, each manufacturer of mobile phones has the ability to modify it to suit their needs. This deal will give Google greater control and make it easier for developers to create apps for Android phones.