Verizon Wireless and Google today unveiled details describing a joint effort in which the two tech titans will co-develop, market and sell devices based on Google's open source mobile platform Android.

The deal essentially helps Verizon wean itself off reliance on Research In Motion's (NASDAQ: RIMM) BlackBerry devices, thus strengthening its position in the competitive smartphone sector, while Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) gains the marketing muscle of the nation's largest wireless carrier in its effort to push Android into the mainstream.

Verizon and Google plan to co-develop several Android-based devices that will be pre-loaded with applications from both parties as well as from third-party developers. A family of Android phones built for the Verizon Wireless network will come from "leading handset manufacturers," according to a statement issued by the two companies.

Integral to the newly minted agreement is a commitment by the companies to devote "substantial resources to accelerate delivery of leading-edge innovation that will put unique applications in the hands of consumers quickly," said Lowell McAdam, CEO of Verizon Wireless, during a conference call with analysts and media.

The agreement will come to fruition within the next few weeks as Verizon Wireless introduces Android-based handsets.

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