AT&T Lists HTC, Samsung, Motorola, LG, and Pantech Models Getting Android OS 4.0 Upgrades

The HTC Vivid has become the first phone offered by AT&T to get an upgrade to the latest version of Google's mobile OS, Android 4.0. The carrier listed which of its models from other manufacturers will be getting their own upgrades.

On this list are the Motorola Atrix 4G and the Atrix 2. A more extensive list of Samsung devices will be moving up to Android OS 4.0: Galaxy S II Skyrocket, Galaxy S II, Galaxy Note, and Captivate Glide. The Pantech Burst and Element are also on the list, and so is the LG Nitro.

AT&T did not say when the upgrade for these models will be introduced. Its only indication was that they would be out "in the coming months". 

Users of the HTC Vivid don't have to wait, however; they can download the update over a Wi-Fi connection by visiting AT&T's website. In addition to a new version of the operating system, Beats By Dr. Dre Audio has been added, bringing richer, more authentic sound whenever a song  is played using the media players or most third-party applications.

A Slow Debut
Google and the U.S. carriers have been criticized by many for the slow rate at which Android OS 4.0 (AKA Ice Cream Sandwich) has been distributed to smartphone users. Although this new version was unveiled in October, at this point it is available for only three devices in this country.

It brings noticeable changes to the general look and feel of the operating system, combining the features of both Android 2.x (Gingerbread) and 3.x (Honeycomb) into one. Many of the bundled applications -- such as the web browser and email app -- have been improved in Android ICS as well, and new features have been added, such as Face Lock, which can unlock a phone using a front-facing camera. 

Brighthand has an review of Android OS 4.0 that goes over many of its aspects, especially how it differs from Android OS 3.2.