In case you all haven’t noticed, over the past 24 hours Google has just issued the latest Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean update for a wide array of Nexus devices. In fact every device since the Galaxy Nexus is getting updates as we speak. Well, all but one Galaxy Nexus. We wanted to drop in and remind everyone that we haven’t forgot about the Samsung G-Nex over on Verizon Wireless, one that is now a full 4 updates behind.

We are starting to just call this the Samsung Galaxy on Verizon, because the “Nexus” part is basically non-existent. Even Sprint’s G-Nex has Android 4.2.1 yet over here in Big Red land we are stuck a full 4 updates behind the rest of the pack. It’s a shame really. Today along with the Nexus 4, 7, and 10 the GSM Galaxy Nexus is receiving Android 4.2.2 bringing an array of changes and bug fixes. Thanks Google!

No thanks to Verizon, their smartphone is a little behind the times considering it is a Nexus — or was. In fact, many of Samsung’s regular Galaxy S III phones have 4.1.2, which is a later version than Verizon’s Nexus. Back in June 2012 at Google I/O Android 4.1 Jelly Bean was announced to the world. Within a few weeks it had arrived for the HSPA+ version, and even the aging XOOM tablet. Yet Verizon never delivered the treat in a timely manor. The Verizon G-Nex received Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean over 3 months after it was announced and two months behind the others.

Verizon customers didn’t officially get it until late September. For those not keeping track at home, we’re now on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean. Since Verizon last updated their Galaxy Nexus to 4.1.1 we’ve seen 4.1.2 arrive, followed by the latest Android 4.2 Jelly Bean with tons of features. Things like gesture typing on an improved keyboard, Photosphere camera, expandable notifications, a better faster Google Now and more. Not to mention with 4.2.1 and 4.2.2 (that makes us 4 behind) a new unlock screen with widgets, shortcuts and more.

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So what we’re getting at is Google’s released and improved tons of features and options for Android, all which are things we are not able to enjoy on the Verizon Galaxy Nexus. The last update was in September to Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean, and we’ve not heard a peep, seen a leak, or any evidence to think an update is in the works.

Hopefully someone over at Google and Verizon are working on something, but we have our doubts. Now we know why the Nexus 4 wasn’t tied to any specific carrier, and with good reason. Thankfully the Android community of loyal developers have kept the Verizon (toro) Nexus alive and kicking, and that won’t be stopping anytime soon.

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30 COMMENTS

  1. They don’t want their customers to keep their devices for 2+ years. They want them to sign up for extra lines, to get the new phones that keep coming out every 3 months.

  2. I asked the Verizon people who’d sold me my Samsung Galaxy Nexus why it wasn’t receiving updates any more – and if it would. Their answer?

    “We don’t know. But it’s not Verizon’s fault. The updates are supposed to come direct from Google. Or Samsung.”

    I didn’t bother to ask them why all other versions of the phone had received multiple updates. Can anyone recommend a good guide to rooting?

  3. I just got my new Nexus 4 from Google Play Store and signed up for month to month plan with T-Mobile. I love the phone, and am looking forward to updating it to 4.2.2 already. The battery on this thing lasts all day easily.

    I came from a Thunderbolt on Verizon that JUST got updated to ICS. Truly, without question, the most asinine and absurd update situation in smartphone history.
    I will NEVER buy a phone through a carrier again.
    Galaxy Nexus will be lucky to get 4.2.1 or 4.2.2. If it does, that will be the last one it gets.

  4. I am ditching Verizon after my contract runs out. (1) no updates (2) no more unlimited data (3) crappy tech support. (4) sales staff that doesn’t care a whit about you once they have your money

    • Tom…it took me a long time to learn that lesson, but I finally flashed my Vzw GNex to Cyanogen MOD 10.1 and couldn’t be more pleased…why didn’t I do this sooner??!!

  5. Between the lack of updates, the relatively poor cellular reception in fringe areas, and not-very-impressive camera, the Galaxy Nexus on Verizon has been a bit of a disappointment for me.

    Believe it or not, I switched back to my HTC Thunderbolt when the ICS update (with new basebands) finally hit the air, and I ACTUALLY LIKE IT! (Well, except for the battery life, but I have a spare.) Weird, because except for the nice pictures it took (for a phone), I was starting to hate the T-Bolt and its outdated OS.

    Verizon is amazing, except that they’re so slow with OTAs. Ugh!

  6. I love my GNex that I bought directly from Google. I want freedom from this carrier crap. However, Google is to blame, too. They should not allow carriers to control their phone. My view of a carrier is a DUMB PIPE. I don’t want any more from them. Until they actually add value (not just cost) with their services, I have no interest.

  7. Does anyone know if there is ANY user agreement or terms of service language that allows for an early termination, without ETF, if a device is no longer offered and/or supported by the carrier? Any help would be great because I have yet to find anything.

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