This really isn't possible as long as Google has exclusive agreements with most of the manufacturers. I mean, maybe they could talk Dell and HP into making Android variants, but there's no way Samsung, Motorola, LG, etc. could join that party while Google's iron grip remains. And as the other commenter pointed out, Google will heavily disrupt access to things like Gmail, YouTube, etc. for people not using "proper" Android phones.
That being said, the option may be available soon, since the EU and Russia have both fined and prohibited Google's agreements with manufacturers, and the Department of Justice is rumored to be considering opening an investigation here in the US.
I saw an interesting suggestion on the MetaFilter thread about the SuperMicro hack allegations [0]:
> Why we thought it would be possible to have all our hardware made in China without the Chinese compromising it is beyond me.
>> MmmHmm. Texas Instruments should really consider making a smart phone.
Between populist protectionism on one hand, and espionage fears on the other, it would be interesting if we see more American OEMs crop up in the next few years.
Yes, the antitrust ruling could make things very interesting. Samsung would definitely be interested in replacing various google play bits. They've tried and failed with tizen. This would give them another shot. Admittedly, samsung's crap is going to be far worse than google's play services, but in the long run, it may lead to more cross-compatibility and openness because devs aren't going to support every reimagination of play services.
I can't help but think that a Microsoft-branded "Google-free" phone that is compatible with all Android apps out there would do a lot better than Windows Phone ever did.
The foldable Surface is designed for Windows Core OS. Given how poorly Android has historically done with tablets or other non-phone form factors (nearly all unique Android devices have been purged from the market), I don't think that would work out well.
That being said, the option may be available soon, since the EU and Russia have both fined and prohibited Google's agreements with manufacturers, and the Department of Justice is rumored to be considering opening an investigation here in the US.