Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) Overview

A full overview and feature rundown of Android 4.0.

Google has taken the stage in Hong Kong to make the next version of Android OS, nicknamed Ice Cream Sandwich, a thing of reality. Better known as Android 4.0 appears to offer a massive redesign to the user interface and adds a plethora of new features. So here's what's new: first, we're seeing a new notification menu, as well as NFC-enabled Android Beam, video snapshots and an improved task manager. ICS also includes a fancy unlocking method called "Face Unlock," which uses facial recognition to ensure strangers can't use your phone without permission. Ice Cream Sandwich also includes enhancements in almost every native app within Android itself. After the break, we'll cover all of the nitty gritty details.

Here's some of the enhancements found in Ice Cream Sandwich:
Virtual buttons in the UI, instead of taking up a capacitive screen
Widgets are in a new tab, listed in a similar list to apps
Folders are much easier to create, with a drag-and-drop style similar to iOS
A customizable launcher
New phone app, with visual voicemail functionality
Pinch-to-zoom functionality in the calendar
Gmail has offline search, a two-line preview, and new action bar at the bottom
Swipe left or right to switch between Gmail conversations
Integrated screenshot capture by holding power and volume down buttons
Improved error correction on the keyboard
Ability to access apps directly from lock screen (similar to HTC Sense 3.x)
Improved copy and paste
Better voice integration
Face Unlock, a facial recognition service
New tabbed web browser, allowing up to 16 tabs
Browser now automatically syncs your Chrome bookmarks
"Roboto" font
Data Usage section in settings lets you set warnings when you reach a certain amount of use and disabling data when you go over your limit
Ability to kill off apps that are using data in the background
Camera app: zero shutter lag, time lapse settings, zoom while recording
Built-in photo editor
New gallery layout, organized by location and person
Refreshed people app with social network integration, status updates and hi-res images


Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwhich) Overview
Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwhich) Overview
Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwhich) Overview

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