Nexus One may be first to get Android 2.3

Just as it did for the groundbreaking Android 2.2 update, Google’s only internally-developed mobile phone is reportedly likely to get the honors of being the first to receive an upgrade to Android 2.3.

Google employee Alvaro Fuentes Vasquez wrote the following message on his LinkedIn page: “Prepare your Nexus One (Developer version) for Android OTA update 2.3 (Gingerbread) in the next few days :-D”

Also known by its code-name “Gingerbread,” the new version of Google’s operating system will be the topic of a heavy-hitting Samsung media event later tonight.

Samsung has been tapped to develop the Nexus Two, the successor to Google’s landmark phone. Despite receiving critical praise, the Nexus One failed considerably in its sales numbers. That’s because it was only ever sold online, and only through a proprietary Google website. It did come to T-Mobile retail stores at one point but at that time it was too little, too late.

The Nexus One received the Android 2.2 update over the summer, getting it earlier than any other device by a matter of weeks.

The Android 2.3 update will bring with it a more interface interface, complete support for HTML5 Web browsing, a new GPS navigation system, and other enhancements to the Internet browser.

Earlier reports have suggested Android 2.3 may be finished as early as November 11. Spectators were hopeful this would also be the launch date of the Nexus Two. However, internal sources later said there were delays in the production of the device and it probably won’t be available until next year.

All is expected to become clearer tonight during the press event with Samsung.