Google Nexus S: What you need to know

The successor to the original Nexus One goes on sale tomorrow at Best Buy

Gingerbread (Android 2.3) | NFC | Android

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Barb Dybwad, updated 519 days ago

The original Nexus One was the stuff of history for many reasons, not the least of which was its status as the first true "Google phone" to run a version of Android purely and strictly approved by the search (and now mobile) giant. Although made by Samsung and not HTC this time around, the Nexus S is nevertheless the true successor to the Nexus One.

The tech world has all eyes on this device — not only to see the first Android 2.3 Gingerbread phone in action, but also to see how Google will handle its second direct foray into the handset business. If you're contemplating picking up a Nexus S when it goes on sale tomorrow, or if you just want to know what the heck is so important about this phone, let us help you sort through the noise with our handy guide below.

Nexus S: Where can I get it?
The Nexus S is available exclusively at Best Buy and Best Buy Mobile stores in the United States beginning December 16. You can buy the phone unlocked for $529.99 or on a T-Mobile 2-year contract for $199.99.

If you're in the U.K., you'll be able to pick up the Nexus S starting December 20 at Best Buy retailers and Carphone Warehouse.

What version of Android will the Nexus S run?
The Samsung Nexus S will be the first commercially available handset to run the newest version of Android, version 2.3, also known as Gingerbread. Check out our guide to everything you need to know about Gingerbread for more about the new features and perks in Android 2.3.

What else is important about the Nexus S?
The Nexus S will be one of the first batch of phones to include support for something called near-field communication technology, or NFC. Although the overall trend is still pretty early, what NFC is all about is letting you make mobile payments right from your phone. Essentially, the end goal of NFC is to help your cell phone replace your credit cards.

What do the experts think about the Nexus S?
A number of technology journalists have already had a chance to put the Nexus S through its paces, and we've rounded up a number of the reviews for you. They report a number of significant similarities to the existing Samsung Galaxy S series, but with the added benefits of the new Android 2.3 mobile operating system, the aforementioned NFC technology, a better screen, a faster processor, and a sleeker design.

Where can I find out more about the Nexus S?
There are many more resources to dive into if you're hungry for more information about the Nexus S. Here are a few more resources to satisfy your thirst for knowledge: