Standing beside the Galaxy S I & II, the Galaxy Nexus is the latest addition to the smart phones family. To be released in November, and first to feature Google's latest OS build, Ice Cream Sandwich, Galaxy Nexus encompasses the best that Samsung and Google have to offer.

Containing a predictable 1.2 GHz Dual-Core processor, the Galaxy Nexus raises the ante with its enormous 4.65-inch HD Super AMOLED display. By removing capacitive buttons and reducing Bezel's thickness (vertical spacing), the phone's increased real-estate allows its 1280x720, 16:9 aspect ratio screen to radiate vivid colors and provide a pleasurable viewing experience.

"By keeping the Bezel small, and this is really crucial, we can make such a huge screen fit comfortably in your hand or in your pocket," said Kevin Packingham, SVP Product Innovation of Samsung Telecommunications America, in a press conference.

Although the five mega-pixel camera is a tad disappointing –8 mega-pixels quickly becoming the industry-standard– added functionalities make it a passable deficit. Utilizing Zero Shutter Lag technology, the Galaxy Nexus' instantaneous shutter speed captures photographs in the blink on an eye.

The Panorama mode eases the difficulties of panoramic photography by enabling users to simply scroll the phone across the desired scenery. In less than a minute, the OS seamlessly stitches the multiple photographs and delivers a unified, high-quality shot.

Incorporating Near Field Communication (NFC), technology behind Visa's PayWave, Android Beam enables select Android devices to share videos, apps, maps, contacts and other data through slight physical contact.

Technical enhancements aside, Google's improved user-interface draws visual cues from other mobile operating systems and modifies them for an immersive Android experience.

Known as Roboto, Ice Cream Sandwich's prevalent font strives to provide a sleek and elegant feel in user interaction. In reimagining the lock screen, Google introduced Face Unlocking.

"Why should you have to remember a password or a pin? Your phone really should just recognize you" said Matias Duarte, senior director of Android operating system User Experience. "With Ice Cream Sandwich, we've invented a totally new approach to securing your device."

Beyond facial recognition unlocking, the new lock screen displays detailed notifications and priority sorting. Widgets are effortlessly resizable and the browser has added features such as page saving, for offline viewing, and up to 16 detailed browser tabs.

Three short years since its inception, Android progression is an admirable feat. From its eager but limited G1 to its sexy and capable Galaxy SII, Google's current update finally gives Android defining aesthetics and a solid sense of direction.

Jerry Aldaz may be reached at prospector@utep.edu.