Google outlines the rules for including Holo — an Android theme — support in Ice Cream Sandwich. This is a good thing.

John Gruber explains it as follows:

Less “open” for handset makers and carriers, but better for developers and users. This should be a significant improvement for the platform in a year or two, when most Android phones in use are running 4.0 or later.

That’s mostly the right idea, but it’s important to note that the carriers/OEMs don’t have to use Holo by default — they just have to include support for it. If they don’t, those devices won’t be able to access Android Market. Finally, Google is using a stick to get these jokers in line (though I’m sure Google would view such access as a carrot). 

But again, while this may technically be less “open” because Google is asking OEMs and carriers do something they didn’t have to do before, this is great news for both users and developers who can expect a more unified Android experience if they choose to use it. 

Now, as Gruber snarks, they just have to figure out how the hell to get most Android users on Ice Cream Sandwich. Or at least 1% of them.