This week in tech news we finally nab ourselves a Verizon branded Galaxy Nexus 4G LTE, review some excellent devices, and see Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) progress through some much needed updates. Monday, by no surprise – Facebook topped Nielsen’s list of most popular Android apps. To be honest, carriers should start including it with devices from now on, as it is probably the first application downloaded from the market by many.

Well, Verizon’s Samsung Galaxy Nexus finally hit the US Thursday, December 15. Officially announced only one day prior, this highly anticipated device is now in the pockets of many. Wednesday, (as a tease almost) the Galaxy Nexus simulator webpage went live – so we knew it was coming. Also, we saw the Nexus receive the Android 4.0.2 (Ice Cream Sandwich) update – which consisted of basic stability enhancements; Google also released the factory image to the public Thursday. For a hands-on and unboxing with the device, navigate here. Cory Gunther has prepared a couple of tips for those of you interested in unlocking your bootloader, gaining root access, and more.

We also had a chance to review a couple of the Nexus accessories including the extended battery and charger. The extended battery is extremely unnoticeable, and at a great price on Verizon’s website. You can pick one up for 50% off now! Battery life on the device hasn’t been satisfying, and may have to do with some significant signal issues many owners are now facing. Hopefully, the Android 4.0.3 update includes a fix.

Both the DROID XYBOARD 8.2 and XYBOARD 10.1 were given hands-on treatment early on in the week – and right before the weekend we saw their extended reviews. The devices proved to be well manufactured and great 4G LTE tablets. But what will help us set a benchmark for future devices looking to hit store shelves? Michael Crider proposes we start a Nexus Certification Program.