Google’s much-anticipated Nexus One smartphone has been internationally launched but will not reach Australia for the foreseeable future.
The phone, which is being sold through one carrier and directly to users in America for $US530, was launched in a press event at Google’s California headquarters.
According to the technical specifications, the device features a 3.7-inch touchscreen OLED display, 1GHz processor, 5-megapixel camera and Google’s Android version 2.1 operating system.
A Google Australia spokesperson said only three non-US countries will initially receive the device: UK, Singapore and Hong Kong. Customers in these locations will undergo the same ordering process as the US, which will then be rolled out in other markets including Australia.
“The Nexus One also had to undergo certification in all countries we sell the phone within, and we wanted to ensure that the import regulations didn't make the phone prohibitively expensive,” the spokesperson stated an email.
Google would not comment on any potential discussions with local carriers, but did state the current phone would not work on Telstra’s NextG network. However, it is able to run off all other commercial 3G networks.
The spokesperson was also unable to provide a local timetable for release or a recommended retail price for Australia customers if and when it is imported.
Technology experts are already predicting the Nexus One will be one of the industry’s biggest game changers in 2010, thanks to its direct sales approach and use of Google applications.
But the IT giant is also facing accusations by some industry pundits of releasing an inferior smartphone that will struggle to compete in the tough market, currently dominated by Apple and Research in Motion.
