All the signs point to a May release date for the next Nexus flavour coming from Google and LG, the latest of which a handset image that could be use as the base model for the much-awaited Nexus 5.

According to @evleaks, the picture posted recently is the second-gen Optimus G. Now, all Android fans know that the LG-made handset was the template used by Google and LG in coming up with the Nexus 4.

The leak strongly suggests that work on Nexus 5 is now underway and the recent reports of Google and LG executives meeting to discuss the new partnership merely formalised its Q3 2013 arrival.

The Nexus 5, experts said, will be unveiled by Google this month or a few weeks from now and among the hordes of expectations, here are the top five features that could be served come the exciting D-Day.

The first phablet in vanilla Android

Sources have hinted that we'll be getting a bigger Nexus smartphone this time around, which is a logical progression from the previous iterations and in line with prevailing trend. The pic from @evleaks indicates that the upcoming Optimus G from LG sport a 5.5-inch screen size.

The same sprawling viewing window should be expected from the Nexus 5, which likely will debut later this month on Jelly Bean 4.3 and should quickly chew in the rumoured Key Lime Pie once Google lets it out before 2013 comes to an end. This Galaxy Note 3 rival is taking on the competition minus the unnecessary bulges, relying solely on the raw power provided by Google and LG.

Top of the line hardware specs

Expect Full HD capabilities from Nexus 5 as it combats Samsung's Super AMOLED and Apple's Retina. Such screen clarity will be fired up either by a Qualcomm or NVIDIA chip, giving the device the muscle it deserves in attempting to neutralise the enemy.

Learning from the misses seen in Nexus 4, its replacement will gun for better durability so gone will be the glass back cover that easily cracks on the slightest pressure. The Nexus 5 will be wrapped in a mix of metal and glass that constantly remind users they're not missing out on iPhone 5S or HTC One.

Insanely great camera specs

This, of course, is a Google mainstay on all Nexus devices as one Google exec had earlier leaked. HTC One and the Galaxy S4 regaled the smartphone crowd with their cool camera features and Apple is reportedly on course to include top-notch snapping menu for the iPhone 5S camera offering.

Google is only obliged to match or even exceed what the others can provide. It should not come as a surprise that the Nexus 5 will rollout with cam sensors beyond the 13MP standard we see today. Plus the galore of camera capabilities set to be delivered by the latest Android forms to come in the quarters ahead.

A more reliable global distribution system

The Nexus 4 release date was rather forgettable. The device became 'available' lacking the support of a solid supply chain. It is assumed that Google and LG have plotted the more appropriate technique in delivering the Nexus 5 to international buyers regardless of their locations.

Or more importantly, it is hoped that Google will not underestimate the global reception for its signature handset, making sure that LG will manufacture enough Nexus 5 units to meet the avalanche of demand around the world.

A device that is powerful and accessible

Nexus 5 packs with power and Google, as previously declared, would want to make the device affordable for almost everyone. Analysts believe the special arrangement between the internet search giant and LG would allow Google Play Store and other accredited retailers to offer the smartphone bearing the same introductory price of the Nexus 4.

Officially, the Nexus 5 would likely sell for $US299 in basic configuration and with sufficient supplies to go around, there should be no price manipulation this time around.