Nexus One

Verizon compatible Nexus One launch could be imminent

The rumoured launch date of 23rd March for a Verizon compatible Nexus One has come and gone, and although it’s certain that a CDMA version of the phone exists, and has even left the HTC factory, a specific launch date is still proving elusive. 

Verizon customers looking to get their hands on a Nexus One may not have much longer to wait however, if a recent screen-grab by a NexusOneForum user proves accurate. NexusOneLove reports a Verizon subsidised Nexus One making a brief appearance on Google’s phone store, available to buy for $199 before being removed a few minutes later. This could of course be the work of an over-eager fan trying out their photoshop skills, but it may just be that we’ve glimpsed the Verizon Nexus One being added to the online phone store in preparation for an imminent launch. 

Nexus One: CDMA version approved by the FCC for Verizon and Sprint

We’ve known for a while that a CDMA compatible version of the Nexus One would be available in the Spring, and it looks like this very same handset, bearing the model number PB99300, has just been approved by the FCC. Now that it has cleared regulator approval it will be heading to the Verizon network, as announced by Google at the Nexus One launch, and to also Sprint according to a recent report. We still don’t have an official launch date but progress through the FCC indicates that things are still on target for a launch this Spring.

Adding this to what we know from another recent FCC filing it seems that there are so far three Nexus One variants:

• PB99100 - The handset which premiered on 5th January, currently the only model available to buy from Google’s phone store.

• PB99110 - Recently spotted passing though the FCC. Adds support for WCDMA bands II and V meaning that it will work with AT&T’s 3G Network in the US.

• PB99300 - The CDMA version of the phone which has just received FCC approval. Available in Spring 2010.

It’s possible that the PB99110 could be replacement for the current Nexus One, rather than addition to the range, as it has all the same capabilities but also supports AT&T 3G (plus other networks who use the WCDMA II and V bands).

This would things fairly simple for Nexus One customers who would have the choice of buying either the ‘300 Verizon/Sprint CDMA version or the ‘110, which is likely to work on all other major networks across the world.

Nexus One to support Sprint 3G

Following a recent FCC filing we know already that we’re likely to see a version of the Nexus One announced soon which will support AT&T’s 3G network, as well as other international carriers who use the same WCDMA I, II and V Bands.

Google have also indicated that a CDMA compatible version of the handset will be available in the spring for use on the Verizon network, and it now seems that Sprint will also support the phone. Gizmodo have posted a response to a recent enquiry from Sprint Customer Solutions which indicates that the Nexus One will also be coming to the Sprint network.

Thank you for contacting Sprint regarding the Nexus One. Unfortunately, this handset model is not on offer as of now.

Once it is launched, you will see promotional campaigns related to the launch date, cost and the features of the handset on our Web site and other promotional media.

Thank you for showing interest in our products & services. Please let us know if you would like us to assist you with anything else.

It seems that Google really is planning to make the Nexus One available on as many networks as possible, as there is now a strong likelihood that it will soon be compatible with all major US carriers, and by implication, most major international networks. Launch dates and data plans are still to be announced as Google continues discussions with network operators but it looks like the will be offering a comprehensive list of carriers for customers to choose from.

Nexus One - US customers already receiving handsets, but what about the rest of the world?

Google launched their new smartphone, the Nexus One yesterday and US customers who ordered the same day should already be taking delivery of their new phone via next day delivery. For those outside the US wondering about availability of the device here’s some answers to the questions that we’ve been getting regarding when, where and for how much?

Availability

Google is currently shipping the phone to just 4 countries. The US (obviously), the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Singapore. Frustrating as it may be if you’re living outside of one of these 4 countries you won’t be able to access Google’s web store even though the phone is likely to work in your country. If you’re after a Nexus One handset and do live in one of these countries then you can order today and have the phone shipped via courier. There’s a charge for shipping to the UK, Hong Kong and Singapore (around $30) and you’ll may also have to pay some tax to the courier when the phone arrives depending on what country you live in.

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Smartphones Compared: total cost of ownership

With a new smartphone player now in the game BillShrink has put together a handy 24 month total cost of ownership chart comparing the Nexus One, iPhone, Droid and Palm Pre handsets. It’s US-centric but interesting viewing for non-US readers as well. The verdict? With an unlimited plan the Nexus One would cost $2,580 over 24 months whilst the iPhone weighs in at an impressive $3780, almost 50% more. Read on to see all the figures.

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