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Samsung’s Galaxy Nexus has finally been revealed. And as expected, the device has several features that make it a standout in the Android ecosystem. For one, it comes with a large, 4.65-inch HD display.
Combine that with LTE support and a 1.2GHz dual-core processor for more-responsive functionality and on paper the device seems like a fine option for just about any consumer looking for a new smartphone.
When compared to other devices in the Android ecosystem the Galaxy Nexus is equally appealing. The device is the first smartphone to run Android 4.0 “Ice Cream Sandwich.” If that operating system can deliver on its promise of improved functionality, it might just be a key reason the Galaxy Nexus sells well when it hits store shelves in November.
Simply put, the Galaxy Nexus, at least on paper, appears to be a real Android winner.
Here’s why.
1. First and foremost: Ice Cream Sandwich
The future of Android directly relates to the success or failure of Android 4.0 “Ice Cream Sandwich.” According to Google, that operating system will deliver a host of improvements to users, including a revamped user interface, improved multitasking and better notifications. If it can deliver on Google’s lofty promises, it could very well put iOS 5 on notice. Even better for Samsung, its device, at least at launch, will be the only device running the operating system, which means if it does come through with fine functionality, the Galaxy Nexus will benefit.
2. The big display matters
Prior to the launch of the iPhone 4S, there was some hope among Apple users that the company would unveil a smartphone featuring a larger display that would match some of the 4.3-inch options already on store shelves. After failing to do so and sticking with the 3.5-inch screen in the iPhone 4S, Apple disappointed many of those hopeful consumers. The Galaxy Nexus, on the other hand, won’t disappoint anyone: the device comes with a 4.65-inch display that dwarfs the iPhone 4S’s screen, as well as most of the screens available in competing Android devices.
3. Google Wallet support
Google has its sights set on in-store payments with its Wallet service. When the Galaxy Nexus launches next month, it too will be able to take advantage of that service. So owners who want to use a credit card to buy a product at a retail outlet can use the Google Wallet app on their Galaxy Nexus rather than pull out plastic. Granted, there are several limitations, mainly limited support from retailers and availability of the service only on Sprint’s network so far. But near-field communication is the future. The Galaxy Nexus is one of the few devices coming to store shelves that will embrace that.
4. LTE support is a key factor
It’s worth noting that Apple has taken aim at 4G-capable devices with its latest smartphone, the iPhone 4S, saying that its 3G handset can deliver the same 14.4M bps download speeds as its chief competitors. But that’s only true on AT&T’s network. Customers of other carrier networks won’t have 4G-like speeds when using the iPhone 4S. The Galaxy Nexus, however, is a different story. The platform will support LTE connectivity out of the box, making it a potentially more appealing option for customers that don’t want to get locked into 3G.