Google Nexus S smartphone

Photo: Samsung_Focus_and_Google_Nexus_S.jpg: Cambodia4kids.org Beth Kanter from California, USA derivative work: Chris Ssk (talk) via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

Google

Google Nexus S

December 16, 2010 6/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Google Nexus S, co-developed by Google and Samsung, was released in December 2010 as the first smartphone to feature Android 2.3 Gingerbread. It offered a "pure Google" experience with a 4-inch Super AMOLED "Contour Display" and introduced Near Field Communication (NFC) to the Android ecosystem.
Display4.0" Super AMOLED, 480x800 pixels
ChipsetSamsung Exynos 3110 (Hummingbird)
Main Camera5 MP, 480p video
Battery1500 mAh Li-Ion
Starting from $39

💰 Google Nexus S Price

The Google Nexus S lowest price is $39, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeSuper AMOLED, 16M colors (GT-I9020/A) or Super Clear LCD (GT-I9023)
Size4.0 inches
Resolution480 x 800 pixels, WVGA
ProtectionContour Display with curved glass

Platform

OSAndroid 2.3 Gingerbread, upgradable to 4.1.2 Jelly Bean
ChipsetSamsung Exynos 3110 (Hummingbird)
CPU1 GHz ARM Cortex-A8
GPUPowerVR SGX540

Memory

Card slotNo
Internal16GB (1GB internal storage, 15GB "USB storage")
RAM512MB

Main Camera

Single5 MP, autofocus
FeaturesLED flash, geotagging
Video480p@30fps

Selfie Camera

SingleVGA
VideoNo

Battery

TypeLi-Ion 1500 mAh, removable
Stand-byUp to 713 h (2G) / Up to 428 h (3G)
Talk timeUp to 14 h (2G) / Up to 6 h 40 min (3G)
Music playUp to 45 h

Body

Dimensions123.9 x 63 x 10.9 mm
Weight129 g (GT-I9020/I9020A/I9023)
BuildPlastic body
SIMMini-SIM

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA
Bluetooth2.1, A2DP
GPSYes, with A-GPS
NFCYes
RadioNo
USBmicroUSB 2.0

Launch

Announced2010, December 06
StatusDiscontinued
Release Date2010, December 16 (US)

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Large 4-inch Super AMOLED screen
  • Faster Android 2.3 Gingerbread OS
  • 1GHz Cortex A8 Hummingbird processor
  • Long battery life (for its time)
  • 16GB built-in memory
  • Timely OS updates (initially)
  • NFC capability

Cons

  • Screen could have a greenish tint
  • Poor camera quality, especially video (480p)
  • No microSD card slot
  • All-plastic body, fingerprint magnet
  • No 720p video recording
  • No dedicated camera key
  • Overly expensive for its feature set at launch
★ Our Verdict

While innovative for its time with Gingerbread and NFC, its camera and lack of expandable storage were notable drawbacks, and its hardware quickly became outdated.

The Google Nexus S is a vintage smartphone, primarily of interest to collectors, Android enthusiasts, or those seeking a nostalgic experience. It runs an outdated version of Android (up to 4.1.2 Jelly Bean) and will not support modern apps or security standards. Do not consider it for daily use. If purchasing, prioritize units in excellent cosmetic condition with a working battery, as replacements are scarce. Verify the screen type (Super AMOLED vs. Super Clear LCD) if display quality is a concern. Expect limited functionality and no official software support.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Google Nexus S Handset
  • Battery
  • Charger
  • USB Cable
  • Wired Headset
  • Quick Start Guide

Typically, new Nexus S devices came with a standard one-year manufacturer's warranty.

❓ Questions & Answers

What was the Google Nexus S known for?

The Google Nexus S was primarily known for being the first smartphone to launch with Android 2.3 Gingerbread and the first Android device to feature Near Field Communication (NFC) technology.

When was the Google Nexus S released?

The Google Nexus S was officially announced on December 6, 2010, and became available for purchase on December 16, 2010.

Who manufactured the Google Nexus S?

The Google Nexus S was co-developed by Google and manufactured by Samsung Electronics.

What was the last Android version supported by the Nexus S?

The last official Android version supported by the Google Nexus S was Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean.

Did the Google Nexus S have expandable storage?

No, the Google Nexus S did not feature a microSD card slot for expandable storage. It came with 16GB of internal memory.

Is the Google Nexus S still usable today?

While the Google Nexus S can still power on, it is not practical for daily use today due to its outdated operating system, lack of support for modern apps, and significant security vulnerabilities.