Google has announced in conjunction with Samsung that the Galaxy Nexus will be running the latest version of Android, version 4.0, also known as Ice Cream Sandwich.

It will be the first device to use the new version of the Android operating system and it is expected to hit markets around the world in early November.

So what are the new key features within Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich)?

• It is a blend of Android 2.3 with features from Android 3 (honeycomb) which was originally found on tablets.  Essentially it is the merging of the two into one rich smartphone operating system.
• There is now a reliance on software buttons instead of hardware buttons for home, back and multitasking.
• Like the previous Honeycomb Android 4.0 it will allow you to view running apps, as well as being able to close them with ease, simply swiping them away.
• A new notification bar enhances the music experience, with new controls and notification specific images.  There is the ability to swipe away notifications which you do not want to see.  Along  with the ability to save those that you will attend to later.
• The notification bar can be accessed from the lock screen removing the need to unlock the device for notifications, as was the case previously with previous versions.
• Facial recognition unlocking allows you to use your face to unlock the smartphone. It is an advancement in security which will come as a welcome benefit to many.  The systems works by the phone recognising your face and confirming that you are the rightful owner.  Once your face has been confirmed the device will unlock.
• Bookmarks stored within the web browser on your device will synchronize with Google Chrome on your desktop computer for one unified list.
• It is now possible to open up to 16 tabs simultaneously within the web browser.
• Web pages can be saved off-line for reading later.
• Android Beam enables the sharing of content between two NFC enabled devices.  Simply tap them together for web pages, maps, contacts and more to be transmitted between them.
• The camera application has been improved with there now being zero-lag on the shutter.
• A greater range of camera effects have been included to improve and enhance the camera experience including many filters.
• There is now a panorama photo mode available when using the camera.
• Media can now be edited without having to connect to any other device using Movie Studio.  This app was previously available on Honeycomb and will also be included within Android 4.0 allowing you to edit media on the go.
• The contacts app has been re-designed and renamed as People.  It will now be possible to include more contact information, higher  resolution pictures and links to Google+ (along other social networks).
• Google+ functionality has been enhanced within Ice Cream Sandwich and matches the design ethos of Android 4.0.
• Data usage monitored is a feature which ensures that you don’t go over to monthly data allowance.   It will give you the ability to see current and projected future use so that you can manage your usage.  Notifications and alerts can be set to avoid unnecessary exceeding your data usage.
• Pinch and zoom support is now included within the calendar application.
• Improved spell correction technology is now incorporated.
• Improved copy and paste functionality.
• Scrollable, stackable and re-sizable widgets.
• Screenshots can be taken with ease due to the screen grab feature.
• Incoming calls can be dealt with more efficiently with quick responses.  Pre-defined text message can be used to respond to calls without the need to answer to them.
• Emails can be searched off-line within Gmail.  With the ability to view an archive of up to 30 days.