Google on Tuesday started selling Galaxy Nexus smartphones on Google Play. This is the second time that the internet giant has decided to sell smartphones after a failed attempt earlier in 2010.

The Galaxy Nexus is available for US $399. It runs on Android 4.0, which is popularly called "Ice Cream Sandwich". The device also supports NFC (near field communication) technology and comes pre-installed with Google Wallet, which enables users to use the phone as a method of payment and redeem offers at select retail shops.

The latest move is seen as a rehearsal for Google to sell its soon to be launched Nexus tablet on Google Play. The Nexus tablet is priced at $199.