Google has confirmed it will release the next version of its popular Pixel smartphone later this year.

The company’s senior vice president of hardware, and former Motorola president, Rick Osterloh told AndroidPIT that Google would follow the “annual rhythm in the industry” with its flagship Pixel.

“You can count on a successor this year, even if you don’t hear a date from me now,” Osterloh said.

The Pixel, which has remained in short supply since its release in October last year, will remain a “premium” smartphone brand according to Osterloh.

Despite previous rumours, Osterloh said Google has no plans to release a cheaper version of the Pixel potentially aimed at emerging markets.

In response, 9to5Google clarified with its original source of the “budget” Pixel rumour that the device is simply being developed by the same team, and could be released outside the US through Google’s low-cost Android One line or under another name.