For anyone in the UK, here is a transcript of the conversation I just had with phones4u online chat service. Seems things are still on track for launch tomorrow, but she couldn't confirm beyond the online launch. I've changed her name, but everything else is verbatim.
You are now connected with Beth.
Beth: Hello, you're chatting with Beth, a Phones4U Sales Advisor, may I take your name please?
You: Dan
Beth: Hi Dan
Beth: How can I help you today?
You: I was wondering if you could confirm that the Samsung Galaxy Nexus will be available tomorrow in your retail stores?
Beth: I cant confirm it in stores, as I dont have access to there stock, it should be either tomorrow, or 18th
You: Your website states that if ordered online today, delivery would be on the 18th. Is that absolutely confirmed. Has Phones4u received stock?
Beth: Online yes, we are getting these to you by the 18th, the phone officially is released tomorrow Dan
You: So all indications would still suggest stock available in retail stores tomorrow, although I understand that you can not 100% confirm this without access to stock information?
Beth: The information online isnt anything to do with stores, with us being direct so we have different stock, deals etc, so yes I cant 100% confirm stores will have the handset, but store more than likely will do in the next few days
You: Does Phones4u have any kind of exclusivity period for selling this phone?
Beth: Not that I know of Dan
You: Okay, thanks for your help. One last thing, upgrades can't be handled online can they? That would require a call back?
Beth: Your welcome, we cant do them online correct, but yes you can fill in your details and wait for the call back or just call in and then we can look into the upgrade for you Dan
You: Thanks.
Beth: Your welcome
Beth: Is there anything else I can help you with today?
You: No, that's all thanks.
Beth: Your welcome, Have an excellent day