Google and LG tweak Nexus 5 design to fix loudspeaker output and hardware buttons

If you have bought a brand new Nexus 5, then you may notice some subtle changes compared to the ones sold during the launch. Take a closer look and you will find that the speaker grille holes are slightly larger and power and volume buttons have become more solid. Click here to read our Nexus 5 review. Just like last year, LG and Google have made changes to the phone's design after it has been launched.

Those with the redesigned phone need to thank those who bought it earlier. Early buyers have been complaining about several aspects from the Nexus 5's noisy power and volume buttons to the protruding SIM tray and low loudspeaker volume. Reportedly many users started sending back their defective Nexus 5 to get a replacement. But now new buyers will get the redesigned version, which should hopefully solve these nagging issues.

Fixed! (Image credit: XDA)

One such Nexus 5 buyer is infa89, a member of an Italian forum, who was facing issues like “dancers and noisy buttons, protruding SIM tray and “cutting edge” display frame”. On comparing the new unit he received to an older Nexus 5 unit, he noticed that the new device looked and felt different. The buttons are stiffer, the display is yellower and the microphone and speaker holes are larger.

The bad news is those who bought the phone before the redesign won't be getting a replacement from Google. However, in the case of serious defects, Google might replace the phone.

The Nexus 5 was launched last month and is available at Google Play Store at a starting price of Rs 28,999. Besides the smartphone, Google is also urging users to buy the official accessories to keep the new Nexus phone sparkling. On sale are coloured bumpers as well as QuickCovers. The bumper costs Rs 2,499 and the QuickCover cases with a flap cost Rs. 3,299.