The upcoming next-generation Nexus 5 has been unveiled via a hands on video, demonstrating the current Android 4.4 KitKat OS running the smartphone. Included in the demo are several changes in apps, UI, performance and some Jelly Bean goodness.

Credit: YouTube/Raazman

1. Operating System

Reports stronly suggested that the Nexus 5 will run Android 4.4 KitKat. Based on the demo video, the alleged upcoming Nexus phone runs Android Key Lime Pie which is referred to by the internal code of Google for 4.4 KitKat. However, the user didn't show what the new Easter egg looks like.

The Nexus 5 and Android 4.4 KitKat will go together on the same launching date which is expected to happen in late October or early November 2013.

2. Native Applications

More Google services were added to the Nexus 5 and it includes Drive, Keep, QuickOffice and the classic Google Earth. Android 4.4 KitKat is speculated to bring a special and exclusive clouding service among Android-running devices.

3. Camera UI and Photosphere

Somehow, the camera application got some redo and the circular interface on Android 4.3 Jelly Bean has been replaced by two option buttons flanking the camera's red key. In addition, Photo Sphere from Android 4.2.2 is also available for KitKat.

4. Better Design than Nexus 4

The Nexus 5 has a slim, sleek and sophisticated design. It features a narrow bezel, camera lens on the upper left with flash right below it and volume rockers on the left side while the power key is located at the right side. Even though LG places some design principle on the Nexus 5 from G2, you can still see the difference between the two smartphones.

5. Smoother Transition and User Interface

One expected improvement in Android 4.4 is the transition animation, screen orientation and user interface. The app drawer seems fine and doesn't have any noticeable bugs or interferences during transition, while the touch response is quick and stable. Google may have included Project Butter on the upcoming Android OS version, too.

6. Android Jelly Bean Goodness

Two Android Jelly Bean features appeared on the demo video - Project Butter and Photosphere. Project Butter smoothens and improves the user interface of Android OS which may have been upgraded for Android 4.4, while Photosphere allows a user to capture 360-degree panoramic image using the smartphone.

7. Browsing and Data Transfer Speed

Another interesting part is browsing speed. So far, the Nexus 5 made it fair and square. Although the connection is under Wi-Fi, it is expected to have stable 4G LTE connection for browsing, streaming and downloading.

8. 3-D Rendering

Using the YouTube app, you can see the good display screen of the Nexus 5 and how it renders the graphics of the video. In another part of the demo, you can also notice the smooth and fast performance of the handset on Google Earth which is loaded by several graphic elements. Included in the Google Earth rendering is the 3-D images of building, landmarks and more.