Arguably the biggest smartphone players are the iPhone 4S and the Galaxy Nexus.
Apple’s creation brought the iPad 2’s dual core A5 processor and considerable graphics prowess into a more mobile platform.
While Samsung’s Galaxy Nexus became the first phone to introduce true HD resolution in a massive 4.65in screen along with the newest version of the Android operating system, nicknamed Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS).
So how do these two superphones shape up against one another?
Operating system
It’s pretty fair to say that a mobile phone operating system (OS) has more of an impact on user experience than hardware does.
iOS and even Windows Phone 7 are routinely described as running smoothly while Android phones still have occasional hiccups.
Now Google is looking to even out that playing field with the ICS, with hardware acceleration as standard, reducing the choppiness that so many Androids have been accused of.
ICS is also bringing a number of upgrades with the entire look and feel of the OS looking more polished and multitasking is much more usable.
Other features include a refined gallery app, better camera software, facial recognition unlock and improved data management and control.
One of iOS’ longstanding selling points is how intuitive it is to use. Even someone who’s never used an iPhone before could pick one up and be comfortable with the majority of its functions within an hour.
iOS 5 has improved upon its usability by adding new features such as Siri.
Exclusive to the iPhone 4S, Siri allows users to communicate with the iPhone through voice commands using natural language rather than pre-set commands that need to be memorised.
Other new features include a much improved (very Android-like) notification system, wireless updates and syncing (another feature Android’s had for quite some time), and an improved photo editor.
Design
Apple decided to keep the iPhone 4’s renowned design exactly the same although many owners found themselves disappointed with a styling that was well over a year old.
The Galaxy Nexus, however, is incredibly attractive both in name and styling.
The ever-so-slightly curved glass display helps it conform to the user’s face and prevents scratches when it’s face down.
It also has a textured back with better grip.
Display
Apple kept the iPhone 4’s Retina display allowing it to retain its industry-leading 330 ppi resolution.
The Galaxy Nexus, on the other hand, has introduced its first ever 4.65in 1280 x 720 screen, using Samsung’s SAMOLED technology to show deep, true blacks, sharp colours and bright, clear pictures.
Camera
The 4S has improved the already fantastic camera in the iPhone 4 with an 8 megapixel (MP) shooter that results in stunning photos even in poorly lit surroundings.
Conversely, the Galaxy Nexus sports a 5MP camera with software that allows for native panoramic photos and zero shutter lag.
Although some may be disappointed that the camera is a relatively paltry 5MP, any photographer will tell you that the quality of the sensor matters far more than the amount of megapixels.
Hardware
Android has spent the better part of the last year or so introducing dual-core handsets, while the iPhone 4S is Apple’s first foray into that world.
The iPhone 4S features the same dual core A5 processor that can be found in the iPad 2 while the Galaxy Nexus has a dual core OMAP 4 from Texas Instruments.
Furthermore, the GPU attached to the A5 is the most powerful available in a mobile.
The OMAP 4 in the Galaxy Nexus, meanwhile, is disappointingly attached to the same PowerVR SGX540 that was found in the original Galaxy S series phones.
However, it’s very unlikely that you’ll find yourself wanting for more with either smartphone.
Where the Galaxy Nexus has the 4S definitively beat, however, is in available memory, with the Galaxy Nexus’ 1GB of RAM literally double the 512 MB found in the 4S.
This is a guest post from Kenny Kraisornkowit who offers shopping advice, product reviews and ways to save money on tech gear and gadgets at Savoo.co.uk.
Photo of iPhone 4S by Janine. Photo of Galaxy Nexus by LAl Ryanne.
