LG confirms Android Gingerbread update schedule for Optimus phones

MUCH TO THE DELIGHT of its customers, LG has announced that its Optimus handsets will get an upgrade to Android 2.3 Gingerbread starting tomorrow.

The rollout will start tomorrow on 1 November with the LG Optimus 2X. The Optimus 3D will get it later in the week starting 21 November, and Optimus Black owners will have to wait until the week commencing 28 November.

On its Facebook page LG said, "LG would like to express its sincere thanks to all of the Optimus Series owners who have been waiting patiently for the Android 2.3 Gingerbread upgrade."

It confirms that the Optimus 2X will be getting the upgrade following widespread rumours that it was going to be left out.

Android 2.3 Gingerbread is a bit late in coming, for the Optimus 3D at least, which we were told would get the update in October. When it does arrive it will allow the smartphone to covert OpenGL applications from 2D into 3D.

LG launched the Optimus 3D phone with Android 2.2 Froyo to avoid a delay in getting it to market.

The schedule applies to European models and might vary between countries and mobile operators. Normally an Android update would bring a handset up to the latest version, but Google recently announced Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich (ISC), so the upgrade might not seem as good anymore.

LG told us regarding Android 4.0 ICS, "LG is committed to offering the best smartphone experience on our Android Optimus phones. We are currently reviewing the latest Android OS release and will be making a decision with our carrier partners on a rollout schedule. Specific phone models and timing of updates will be posted on relevant local websites or at www.lg.com." µ