Google has unveiled its latest handset to take on the iPhone - and says it hopes to attract ‘the next billion people’ to its Android software.
The new Nexus 5, which goes on sale in the UK today, will
cost from £299.
It has a 4.95 inch screen, and runs KitKat, a new version
of Google’s software designed to be easier to use and faster.
The firm said it has designed the handset to be operated
with voice commands, and hoped to steal a march on arch-rival Apple with
‘Google smarts’.
“Our vision is that every time you pick up your phone and
glance at it, you have the right information - and we’re taking our first steps
in that direction,” said Sundar Pichai, Google’s Android boss.
“We think we are doing something very different from
Apple’s Siri.”
The firm hopes its software will be able to run on all
new Android handsets, not just high end models - and is targeting emerging
markets to boost its market share.
“How do we get Android to work for the next billion
people - that’s our goal for the 2014,” said Pichai.
“Five years ago we launched the first Android, now the
system is healthier than ever and very vibrant,” he added, claiming the new
phone offers “A more beautiful, immersive experience.”
First Impressions: Nexus 5
Google has always been known for putting software in
front of hardware. While it’s Nexus range has been well received, it’s never
really sold in huge number. However, the Nexus 5 could change that.
It’s a very well designed device, with build quality
that’s far and away the best we’ve seen on an Android device.
The updates to Android are also impressive, making the
Nexus 5 feel very quick. It’s also extremely light, and the rubberised backing
means you’re unlikely to drop it.
Overall, this is the best Android handset on the market,
and when combined with the tweaks to Android, make this a phone Apple and
Samsung should be taking notice of - and one that could be Google’s first big
selling Nexus handset.
