HTC is probably making two Nexus devices for Google, codenamed M1 and S1

We already new HTC was the likely winner in Google’s annual build-a-Nexus contest, but two reports today suggest the company is actually building two devices.

First up, Evan Blass – better known as the consistently accurate @evleaks – suggests HTC is making two devices internall dubbed M1 and S1.

That said, it’s possible those titles could stick: the naming scheme fits given HTC built the original Nexus One, and there are only so many ways you can name phones after their screen sizes before the idea gets stale.

HTC is building a pair of Android N devices for Google internally dubbed M1 and S1 #nexus

— Evan Blass (@evleaks) April 27, 2016

Android Police corroborates this report, saying the devices are codenamed Marlin and Sailfish, following Google’s trend of naming Nexus devices after critters with gills before they go public.

A previous report by The Information suggested Google wants to take tighter control over the Nexus program, bringing the devices more in line with its Pixel devices. Unlike Nexus phones, Google designs Pixel devices without the aid of a third party. The new approach would see Google exercising tighter control over its Nexus designs, even foregoing partner branding.

While that lack of branding could prove problematic for HTC, a company that’s fighting to make its smartphones popular again, it also makes sense with the company’s current design approach. The HTC 10 may not have the most exciting feature list, but it has one of the most minimal custom UI’s around, even saying it worked directly with Google to reduce unnecessary features and custom apps.

Many Android users – especially those looking into Nexus devices – will take minimal bloatware over more features. Given HTC is already designing phones with a lighter touch than usual, it seems best poised to build this year’s Nexus hardware.

It would be something of a throwback for HTC: aside from building the first Nexus, it used to manufacturer hardware for other company’s before getting into the smartphone game itself.

Besides, the company might be willing to trade a lack of branding for the chance to make two devices instead of just one; last year’s Nexus 5X and 6P were build by LG and Huawei, respectively.

In any case, it shouldn’t be very long until we know more. Google is hosting its I/O conference starting May 18, and Android N is set to be released this summer – a few months earlier than usual. Given Nexus launches normally coincide with new versions of Android, there’s a good chance we’ll hear more about the devices in just a few weeks.