Google confirms no Android 4.4 KitKat for the Samsung Galaxy Nexus, as the device already ended its update support life cycle. However, owners of the Galaxy Nexus can still get Android 4.4 KitKat from three possible ways to enjoy all new features provided by the next-gen Android.

Google Said 'No Android 4.4'

Android 4.4 KitKat is not coming to Samsung Galaxy Nexus - a 2-year old Nexus handset - according to the confirmation from Google which termed the Nexus smartphone "outside of update period."

"Galaxy Nexus, which first launched two years ago, falls outside of the 18-month update window when Google and others traditionally update devices," Google confirms from their support page.

The Nexus 5 currently runs Android 4.4 KitKat, while other Nexus devices such as Nexus 4, Nexus 7 and Nexus 10 are all eligible for the update. Google strictly follows the traditional 18-month update window for smartphones which somehow contradicted the purpose of Android 4.4 which is to support older devices. However, it doesn't mean that Galaxy Nexus isn't capable of running the latest OS, the announcement merely coincide with rules Google follows.

How to Get Android 4.4 KitKat for Galaxy Nexus

If you own a Samsung Galaxy Nexus smartphone and disappointed with Google's announcement, the following are three possible ways for you to get Android 4.4 KitKat installed on your Galaxy Nexus:

1. Verizon Galaxy Nexus

It seems like not all Galaxy Nexus are subjected to Google's announcement, which only points to the company's discretion of updating the smartphone. An Android developer named baldwinguy77 created OTA-like firmware builds for the device which includes Android 4.4 plus Verizon and Google apps. However, this is only available for Verizon Galaxy Nexus users.

2. Custom ROM Makers
Another source of Android 4.4 KitKat are custom ROM developers such as CyanogenMod, Slim ROM and Paranoid Android which support Galaxy Nexus with Android Jelly Bean firmware. You may check their Web sites constantly to get latest news for the Galaxy Nexus. It may take a few months before any Android 4.4 KitKat is made for your device though.

3. Flashing Android 4.4 Stock Apps
Since Android 4.4 KitKat relies on new applications updated by Google, you can install Android 4.4 stock apps to your Galaxy Nexus to get some of its latest features. Android 4.4 stock apps include Ok Google on Google Now, Google Experience Launcher and several changes on calendar, camera, clock, email, gallery, hangouts and keyboard.