The Nexus S showcased the first Ice Cream Sandwich leak, on an Android phone, last year. Subsequently, there have been numerous leaks, official updates for other GEDs like the Xoom, as well as a variety of non-GED devices; but what we have here is a leak for the ICS out-of-the-box experience with the Galaxy Nexus (the successor of the Nexus S).

XDA member mrxkills  has posted a leaked, official firmware update, for the Nexus S 4G or the  CDMA variant of this fantastic device, that has made it’s way to the developer community over at XDA. It’s interesting  to note that this update is based on Android ICS 4.0.4, which is one-up over the 4.0.3 leaks that we’ve been seeing all this while. But then, this is a Nexus device, and  hence, likely to get the latest and the greatest, as far as official updates from Google are concerned! Those of you who are lucky enough to own one of these babies, can download this firmware and enjoy the official creaminess of Ice Cream Sandwich on your Nexus S 4G, by updating it manually.

This update brings a new software modem, bootloader, and a new build number — IMM26 — Android version 4.0.4. Most of the features are working, including the WiMAX radio (this should bring up some smiles)

Warning

The steps and methods included in this guide are considered risky. Please do not attempt to try this unless you know exactly what you are doing, as it may render your device unusable, and your pocket lighter by the amount it takes to replace it. You have been forewarned!!!

Compatibility

This rom and the guide below is compatible only with the Nexus S 4G  version- model # SPH-D720. Please do not attempt to flash it on an incompatible device, as it could cause damage to your device and brick it. Check your device’s model number in: Settings » About device. 

Download Links

 Pre-Installation Requirements

  • Rooted Nexus S
  • Fully Charged battery
  • Device drivers installed on your PC. You can use this guide to automatically install drivers for your device

How To Install the IMM26 Ice Cream Sandwich Firmware on Nexus S 4G

To install the leaked Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich firmware on your Nexus S 4G, download the firmware from the above and flash it on your phone using Odin software. You can also refer to this video walkthrough.

If you own one of these babies, go ahead and update your Nexus S 4G to the latest and the greatest, and let us know about your experience in comments below.