Nexus 5 Release Update: $349 Google Phone is Powered by KitKat Operating System

Oct 31, 2013 03:40 PM EDT | Matt Mercuro

Google will be releasing a new smartphone that the company believes will become more like "a clairvoyant friend than just another piece of hardware," according to the Associated Press.

The phone, called the Nexus 5, is the first device to run on Google's newest Android operating system, "KitKat."

The OS was, of course, nicknamed after the famous candy bar, according to the search engine company.

"This is a cutting-edge device at an incredible price," said Sundar Pichai, who works for Google, according to USA Today.

The Nexus 5 and "KitKat" software were both created to make life easier for users to access Google's search engine and other services provided by the company.

Each device running on "KitKat" is designed to learn about an individual's "habits and needs" so it can display helpful information, according to AP.

"To make 'KitKat' work on an entry-level smartphone, that makes a big difference," Pichai said.

Google's Chrome browser will use less 16 percent less memory on "KitKat," compared to the previous version of Android called "Jelly Bean."

Google Now, which is the company's virtual assistant, will also try to learn more about a specific Nexus 5 user to make their experience with the device less stressful.

Like similar Nexus devices, the 5-inch phone will not ask for a commitment to a specific wireless provider.

Interested buyers can purchase the phone on Google's online store for a base price of $349.

The Nexus 5, which is manufactured by LG, will also be sold through AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile. Only Verizon Wireless chose not to carry the device for the time being.

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