When the Nexus One came out back in January, I was pretty excited.’a0 Google’s Nexus One featured a fantastically beautiful and thin Android device that could finally make Android a phone platform that would cause envy, even amongst iPhone users.’a0 To this day, the Nexus One is a great device that causes heads to turn when it is being used.

However, the Nexus has been out for a few months now, so it’s time to look at what’s here and now in the Android handset market.’a0 Yesterday, I received an HTC Incredible from Verizon Wireless.’a0 The phone, not released yet, has an amazing array of features that put it beyond even the Nexus One.’a0 Here’s a rundown:

• 1 Ghz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor
• HTC Sense UI for much-needed shine in the user interface
• Android 2.1
• 8GB of onboard memory
• An impressive 8MP camera with huge lens.
• 3.7″ AMOLED screen

All this hardware sexiness is housed in a thin, black shell.’a0 The screen absolutely pops with color and brilliance.’a0 Going between apps and loading them is quick and fluid with the monster 1Ghz processor.’a0 This phone is easily the fastest I’ve ever used.

The camera is notably better on the Incredible and features two LED flashes.’a0 Additionally, the phone has an optical mouse pointer, FM radio, and a digital compass.

I’ll be posting a full review soon, but the HTC Incredible marks a moment, at least here in the US where the Incredible is immediately available, where the Nexus One is no longer the king of the mountain for Android handsets.’a0 I hope the N1 enjoyed it’s ride, but the Incredible appears to be the king of this hill for now!

(Photo credit: Flickr user originalas)