Google just pulled out a Samsung Galaxy S4 on the Google I/O stage, but it’s not like any S4 you’ve ever seen: It runs stock Android, is a completely unlocked device that comes with an unlocked bootloader, and Google’s promising prompt system updates as well. The device runs on both T-Mobile and AT&T’s LTE networks and comes with 16GB of storage. The handset will go on sale, directly from Google, for $649 this June 26th.
Google turns the Samsung Galaxy S4 into a Nexus phone, coming June 26th for $649
is a senior editor and founding member of The Verge who covers gadgets, games, and toys. He spent 15 years editing the likes of CNET, Gizmodo, and Engadget.
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Basically, it’s a Nexus device, and while Google didn’t give it an official name, the company wasn’t shy about describing the “Nexus user experience” on tap. When we reviewed the Galaxy S4 last month, we found it one of the most compelling Android smartphones we’d ever seen, if not as physically solid as the HTC One or a gigantic improvement over the Galaxy S III. It’s also not nearly as inexpensive as the Nexus 4, which doesn’t come with LTE but retails for only $299 fully unlocked. Another temporary caveat with this Nexus device might be that it comes with Android 4.2, even though we’re expecting Android 4.3 relatively soon.
Google didn’t have a lot more to say about the new Galaxy S4, but you can follow along with our Google I/O Live Blog for the latest updates.
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