While the Galaxy Nexus has been largely been replaced by the Nexus 4 as the smartphone of choice for Android purists, that doesn't mean it's been completely forgotten by developers. There are still many Galaxy Nexus owners out there, and here's some good news for (some of) them: Android 4.2.1 is now hitting the Sprint Galaxy Nexus here in the United States.
Sprint Galaxy Nexus users will be receiving the upgrade OTA over a "10-21 day period," so if it hasn't shown up on your device, don't worry, it shouldn't be too far off since device selection is random, according to Sprint.
The update is only for those with a Galaxy Nexus on Sprint's network. Verizon, as usual, still has not released Android 4.2 for its Galaxy Nexus, and given its track record, it would be prudent not to hold one's breath.
In a posting in Sprint's community forums, dshoem01 lists three main improvements to the interface from Android 4.1 to Android 4.2:
" - Redesigned camera interface and new Photo Sphere feature (a 360-degree panorama mode)
- Notifications Shade accessible by swiping top screen edge downwards; swipe down with two fingers to view notifications; tap the notification to expand and take action on it.
- Lockscreen widgets to access certain apps without unlocking the screen; sidescroll right for camera or left for other widgets (time and weather, gmail, etc.)."
Android 4.2 also gives users the ability to create multiple user profiles on the same device - much like a PC. This makes it great for sharing the device with family or friends, as each profile remembers preferences, game saves, and more. It's doubtful this is as appealing on a small handset as it is on a tablet, but it's still a welcome addition.
Let us know if you were able to grab Sprint's Galaxy Nexus Android 4.2 update and what you think of it.