Google working on Android-based console - rumour

Google is finally entering the games hardware race, according to a fresh batch of rumours.

The Wall Street Journal cites anonymous "people familiar with the matter" for word that Google is developing both a video game console and wristwatch.

Both devices are designed to go head-to-head with similar rumoured products from Apple, the sources added, as well as increase Google's hardware presence beyond smartphones and tablets, and get in on new hardware categories ahead of the curve.

Google intends to design and market the new gadgets in-house, along with a third stymied project, the Nexus Q media centre, and have one on the market by northern autumn, the sources added.

One Android-based console has already made it to commercial release - the Kickstarter-funded Ouya.

Thanks, Polygon.