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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.

Jessica Dolcourt Senior Director, Commerce & Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Expertise Content strategy, team leadership, audience engagement, iPhone, Samsung, Android, iOS, tips and FAQs.
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Watch this: 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.