HTC ThunderBolt Getting Android OS 2.3 (Gingerbread) by Mid-Year

The HTC HTC ThunderBolt debuted recently running Android OS 2.2, but an HTC representative says that an upgrade to Android OS 2.3  will be released in the next few months.

This word comes in an email from an HTC rep who was answering tech support questions. Part of her message says:

We are excited to announce that the Thunderbolt will receive the Gingerbread (Android 2.3) update in Q2 2011. Stay tuned for details as we get closer to the update availability.

The ThunderBolt is Verizon's new flagship model, and its first 4G smartphone, so it was somewhat surprising that it launched with OS 2.2 when version 2.3 was introduced several months ago.

What's New in Android OS 2.3
Google's main goals in the latest version of its operating system for smartphones were improving the user interface, adding support for new types of communication, and fostering games development.

Google says that Android OS 2.3 (Gingerbread) is the fastest version yet. Plus, Google has tweaked the user interface a bit, and given it an on-screen keyboard that many think is easier to type with than the previous one.

The process for cut-and-paste has been enhanced by a set of movable bounding arrows (see image at right).

Support for multiple cameras has been built into Android OS 2.3 for video conferencing. Plus, the new version also has support for VoIP/SIP software.

The enhancements made to improve gaming are intended to bring smoother animation and increased responsiveness. 

Source