"In its attempt to portray itself as a victim of an anti-Android campaign from Microsoft and Apple, Google has ended up with a self-inflicted black eye. After all, why would companies on an anti-Android campaign extend an invitation to Google to join the consortium?" - LANjackal

That's just how clever and devious they are. MS knew Google wouldn't join so they made the offer as a cover play. At least that's how will go in the screenplay treatment... - Todd Hoff