Sprint's Samsung Galaxy Nexus sweeter with Google Wallet (hands-on)

It's true--Sprint is launching a 4G LTE version of the Samsung Galaxy Nexus. We're not sure when or for how much, but one thing is certain--it makes better use of NFC's tap-to-pay technology.

by Jessica Dolcourt January 10, 2012 10:59 AM PST Follow @jdolcourt

Samsung Galaxy Nexus has a Sprint advantage

LAS VEGAS--Yesterday Sprint made its forthcoming Samsung Galaxy Nexus official, and today I got to see it with my own eyes.

It's virtually identical in look and feel to the Verizon version, from 4G LTE support for Sprint's shiny new LTE network, to the 4.65-inch Super AMOLED screen and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich.

Yet there is one major difference. Sprint, unlike Verizon, is a Google Wallet partner, which means that anyone with a Citi MasterCard or Google prepaid card can sign up for a Google Wallet account and begin using their phone at participating terminals to pay for goods and services. Verizon blocks Google Wallet, one of the major benefits of the phone's NFC, or near-field communications, technology.

Sprint's Galaxy Nexus says hello (photos)

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Verizon's 4G LTE Galaxy Nexus earned a coveted CNET Editors' Choice Award, and Sprint's version is as promising, so long as its new LTE network can deliver--the test of every new or expanding 4G network.

Sprint still hasn't announced when it's coming, or for how much, but when it does, you might find yourself leaving your wallet at home more often.

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