Google Officially Launches its Nexus One Smartphone

Google is using this week's Consumer Electronics Show (CES) as the launch pad for its new Android-based Nexus One smartphone. Technical details for the device can be found at a Google website. A 3D tour can also be found online.At this morning's press conference, Google's Mario Queiroz, Vice President of Product Management, introduced Nexus One and explained its name as meaning "a convergence point for mobile technology, apps and the Internet." He also said that "Nexus One is an exemplar of what's possible on mobile devices through Android--when cool apps meet a fast, bright and connected computer that fits in your pocket."

Nexus One includes a variety of embedded popular applications, such as Facebook and Google Maps Navigation, and is also equipped with several new customized features, with more home screen panels added and a new live wallpaper feature. The phone features a new 3D framework for the Android system to power a new-look application launcher and photo and video galleries. Voice commands that are trained to respond to your voice will allow you to speak commands or text in any situation. A new Google Earth application was also unveiled, providing the full Earth experience on your phone in a similar fashion to that of the iPhone application.

The phone is available for $529.99 or with cellular service from T-Mobile for $179.99 with a two year service contract.