Just got my certified Galaxy Nexus. If it has been used, I cannot tell. It came with ICS and I immediately updated OTA to JB. I then rooted and unlocked it because everyone said if I planned on doing that, it was best to do it right away. I am coming from an iPhone4 only because when I got the iPhone (about 1.5 years ago) I was not happy with the way Android stuttered and jerked at the time. Didn't want to go with an iPhone5 because my eyes are getting old and the width of reading anything in portrait mode when the width is the same as my IP4 is too difficult. Otherwise I was happy with the IP4. I spend all day fixing and messing with computers, I don't like to do the same with my phone especially as it's an essential business tool and not a toy. Just wanted to give Android another chance, but didn't want to spend a lot or extend my contract again.
For $229, this was perfect. Gives me a very good phone (not top of line hardware-wise anymore, but who cares as long as it's smooth). It also allowed me to go month-to-month, lopping about 6 months off my existing contract without a early term fee!
With JB (didn't really play with ICS at all since the OTA update was available immediately), it seems just as smooth overall as my iPhone4. I read that some had reception issues, but I don't seem to have any. Battery life seems OK as I really don't do much with the phone beyond actually making phone calls and an occasional internet information lookup. I ordered an extended battery anyway from Amazon, but I haven't received it yet.
What I don't like is the buttons are too easy to press. Just handling it, I constantly hit the power or volumes buttons. Wouldn't be a big deal except the actuation pressure is so light I keep turning it off or on by accident. I have a case on the way so hopefully that will alleviate this issue as the buttons will then be recessed. Screen is great. Is it better than the IP4, no, but it's not worse either, just different. It IS bigger in width though, so that's the important part with my tired ass eyes for portrait mode.
For $229 it was well-worth it to get out of contract early, keep my unlimited plan on a month-to-month, and get a well-supported and good performing phone.
I'll keep my IP4 as backup and hope this Nexus provides as good as long-term service use as my IP4 did. For $229 though, even if it only lasts the year of warrantee, it'll be worth it.