Samsung Nexus S 4G Coming May 8: Sprint

Sprint said it is launching its Samsung Nexus S 4G smartphone May 8 for 199.99 with a two-year contract, adding another speedy Android handset to the next-generation WiMax network mix.

Google introduced the first Samsung Nexus S Android 2.3 "Gingerbread" device last December, offering it unlocked or with a $179.99 contract from T-Mobile.

Powered by a 1GHz Samsung processor and possessing a 4-inch, contoured Super Amoled touchscreen, the Nexus S 4G is more or less the same phone as the Nexus S.

As such, the phone includes a NFC (near field communications) technology chip to enable wireless communication with posters, signs and point of sale terminals equipped with NFC sensors. Google envisions NFC will pave the way for mobile payments via such handsets.

Like its predeccessor, Nexus S 4G also includes the full complement of Google mobile applications and faster upgrade cycles. This is known as the "pure Google experience."

"With its pure Google experience, Sprint Nexus S 4G customers will be among the first to receive Android software upgrades and new Google mobile apps, and in many cases, the device will get the updates and new apps as soon as they are available," Sprint promised April 26.

However, while the Nexus S is 3G only, the Nexus S 4G is equipped with a 4G radio to tap into Sprint's speedy WiMAX network, which is available in some 70 markets around the country.

The Nexus S 4G also includes a dedicated graphics processing unit to boost the quality and speed of HD video content, mobile games and Web browsing.

The Nexus S 4G includes a 5 megapixel rear-facing camera and front-facing VGA camera to enable video chat. Sprint is also offering its 3G/4G mobile hotspot capability, which will power up to six WiFi-enabled devices.

The device sports 16GB of internal memory and is powered by a 1500 mAh battery.

Sprint will sell the Nexus S 4G in all Sprint retail stores, Best Buy outlets, as well as online and over the phone. The contract starts at $69.99 per month, plus a $10 add-on charge for "premium data" delivered via its smartphones.

Sprint's Nexus S 4G is the carrier's fourth 4G phone and follows AT&T's Motorola Atrix 4G and Verizon Wireless' popular HTC Thunderbolt this year.