Apple seems to signal a September release date for the iPhone 5S while its Android counterpart, Google's Nexus 5 is seen to crash the scene between October and November this year.

The rollouts are separate but observers cannot help but to tie the two gadgets together. They, after all, represent the two dominant mobile systems today. While other handsets run on numerous Android builds, it is the Nexus that shows off the real and raw power of the Google mobile OS.

For the Android faithful, the Nexus 5 is the worthy iPhone 5S opponent - planned and built in accordance to the pure Android experience, which later this year will be reflected via the Key Lime Pie.

Apple's gadget emphasis is the tight integration of hardware and software and the with Nexus devices, Google is emulating that model. With utmost care, Google is pairing the impressive native Android capabilities with top-notch components. The object is to simulate the success of iOS, provide enhancements and make it more accessible.

Last year's tussle was a resounding success for the iPhone 5. Will it be any different this year? Here are three indications that we might get to see an entirely new narrative of the Apple-Google 2013 combat.

The reengineered iOS 7 and Key Lime Pie

The former is confirmed and the latter remains the subject of speculations. The sure thing about Android for now is Jelly Bean 4.3 will arrive first. Experts, however, are convinced that its rule will be short-lived, set to be replaced by Android 5.0 or KLP by October this year.

If indeed KLP is landing soon, it will be a titanic contest between the two systems that virtually get the attention of most of the mobile gadget users the world over. The two will dispense revised environments but with an identical emphasis on powerful features and social media integration. As experts perennially insist, the platform choice is a matter of preference. Apple and Google will again argue it out with consumers which ecosystem works best for them. And they have the iPhone 5S and the Nexus 5 to make the case for them.

Impressive hardware bump ups for both the iPhone 5S and Nexus 5

To date, no definite hardware upgrades are connected to the Nexus 5. In fact, not one device maker can claim the honour of producing the Google-centric smartphone up to this time. Regardless, bloggers are convinced Google will deliver upgrades that will suit with the powers to be radiated via the KLP.

That would mean faster processor, higher resolution display (likely at 1080p) and the latest network chip (LTE) to facilitate for the faster internet access possible. Given to is a redesigned body-build and basing on the 2013 trend so far, expect a Nexus 5 that is slimmer, lighter but with sprawling screen display.

The same goes with the 5S. While analysts were resigned to the fact that it is a mere incremental jump from the iPhone 5, at least on the outer look, what would be inside the guts are nothing short of exciting. Some likely additions: Fingerprint sensors with sapphire coating would be embedded with Home button, NFC-enabled wallet payment, more smart sensors and a host of killer camera features.

Tight pricing rivalry

The Nexus 5 predecessor, the Nexus 4, immediately made its mark by assuming the image that it delivers raw power without breaking the bank. It was retailed starting at $US299 and the likelihood is, the 2013 edition will get the same price tag.

Is it really cheaper compared to the iPhone 5S? The iOS device will be likely priced at around $US199, which comes with a contract, or $100 lower than the Nexus 5, But it will be a different story for the unlock editions. They can be had beginning at $600 or more.

With less than $300, the Nexus 5 offers a more solid price option plus no contract obligation. But things could change drastically if Google, once again, bungled the distribution task, which last year saw the Nexus 4 retail inflated to a high of $500 or more.