Galaxy Nexus Launches in Canada With Sheepdogs Support

Free ice cream sandwiches don't hurt the "pure Google" experience either.

The Samsung Galaxy Nexus is one of the most hotly anticipated phones of 2011 – perhaps even topping that of the iPhone 4S for those who aren't interested in Apple products.

The latest Google phone was released first in November to European customers across the pond. On this side of the Atlantic, however, the anticipation is slightly mixed. While Android users in the United States are eagerly awaiting its release, Verizon is curiously not drumming up any excitement.

Believe it or not, the carrier making the most noise about the Galaxy Nexus is Bell Mobility in Canada. Bell partnered with Samsung for a special launch event in Toronto on December 7. The phone doesn't officially launch nationwide until December 8, but those able to make it to downtown Toronto could purchase it a day early.

Just before the Galaxy Nexus was cleared for sale in the afternoon, Samsung and Bell recruited Saskatoon-based band The Sheepdogs to help draw a crowd into Yonge-Dundas Square. Those who were into the music got to enjoy a free concert, while those seeking refuge from the just-barely freezing temperatures could do so inside a tent—conveniently stocked with at least a dozen Galaxy Nexus phones on demo with a handful of representatives to preach about the greatness of Ice Cream Sandwich.

Everyone was allowed to spend a little time with the phone—which ships in Canada in the unlocked HSPA+ 21Mbps pentaband form—and some lucky people were even served real ice cream sandwiches from the nearby Future Shop.

Unlike what happens with a new iPhone launch, however, there were no campers or even massive lines leading up to the afternoon sale. There were at least a half-dozen stores selling the Galaxy Nexus in the designated "early release" downtown area. For Android fans who wanted to get the latest "pure Google" experience, it was a relatively stress-free buying experience once you get past that 3-year contract.

With the 3-year contract, the phone is priced at $159.95. Those who want it with no strings attached will have to pay $649.95.

Verizon's yet to make any official announcement about when and for how much, but the latest leaks and rumors have its Galaxy Nexus CDMA/LTE (quietly) launching at the end of this week for $299.99 on a 2-year contract.

Stay tuned for more.