The Nexus line offered by Google has created a clear identity; behind each version stands the will to make the best, purest, Android-istic phone, at a price that matches what most carriers and manufacturers would charge with a regular two-year contract. On Halloween Google launched Nexus 5 after months of “accidental” leaks, powered by Android 4.4 Kitkat software. The Nexus line represents Google hardware running on Google software, built by a manufacturing partner (LG), but with Google’s involvement in the creation of the hardware. The result is a 5-inch phone, thinner and lighter than the previous version, quite difficult to use for those with small hands. It’s coated in a soft-touch plastic (not the best choice for a premium phone), with a silky texture that provides just enough friction to keep the phone in hand. The backside has a rounded finish that feels nicely in the palm of the hand and the 130g it weights makes it light enough for a one-hand usage. The rear camera in the top left-hand corner looks and feels odd, bulging the surface and acting as prop when the phone is laid down flat, basically left completely unprotected. The screen is full HD IPS Plus LCD that makes text on websites crisp and easily readable, while photos and videos offer details and intense color. Furthermore, the screen’s brightness makes reading in direct light much easier. The technical specifications feature a 2.3 GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor backed by 2GB of RAM, 16 or 32 GB of storage (no micro SD slot for expansion), 8MP rear camera with OIS (optical image stabilization) and a 1.3MP front camera. The HDR (high dynamic range) function helps produce greatly improved detail and color in photos. Based on these, the phone is as...