Google reportedly has turned to cooperate with High Tech Computer (HTC) for its new 8-inch Nexus tablet instead of Asustek Computer. The device is rumored to be released in the third quarter, according to sources from the upstream supply chain, DigiTimes said.

Google partnered with Asustek for the first two generations of Nexus 7, but for the next-generation model, the Internet giant is considering adopting a new design and therefore has switched to a new partner, the sources noted.

Asustek has also not been as aggressive over third-generation Nexus orders since Google has placed restrictions on the partnership and Asustek would have no initiative during the development. Without Nexus orders, Asustek will be able to push its own-brand tablets and smartphones fully, the sources said.

Prior to its cooperation with Asustek for the first-generation Nexus 7, Google tried to contact HTC for a partnership, but was refused because HTC was busy pushing its smartphone business back then, the sources added.

The sources pointed out that Google is also not very aggressive about its third-generation Nexus tablet since the series has already served the purpose of boosting Android's penetration in the tablet market. With Nexus tablets no longer having a significant influence in the tablet market, some market watchers believe the new device could be the last tablet Google releases.