LG Optimus UI 3.0 for Android ICS Devices Announced

Now we get an official name for the revamped interface for LG's Android Ice Cream Sandwich phones, and it is... hold tight... LG Optimus UI 3.0! The stroke of marketing genius that brought us the naming scheme actually has its finger on the pulse of the competition, as the new interface brings it up to speeds with the likes of HTC Sense 4.0 in the One series, and the TouchWiz Nature UX in the Galaxy S III.

You will be able to unlock the phone from anywhere on the screen and go directly into the camera, which will have zero shutter lag, Burst and Best shot functions, the ability to take pictures while shooting video, and the rest of the goodies that come with the ICS camera API.

LG, however, is adding its own unique twist, with the inclusion of Voice Shutter, which can take a picture or start filming at a predetermined voice command like "Cheese", for instance. Should be handy for those who always end up capturing the party moments instead of being in front of the lens. 

An interesting introduction is the Quick Memo function, which is one of those "aha" moments - you will be able to scribble something on any screen quickly with your finger as a reminder. There is also the option to customize the Android icons, placing your own face, or any pic you'd like in the menu for a more personalized experience. Now the only thing left is for the first quad-core phone announced - the LG Optimus 4X HD - to hit shelves next month.

New features in LG Optimus UI 3.0

• Ability to unlock the phone by dragging anywhere on the screen
• New Pattern Lock allows users to preset the most frequently used function, such as the camera, which automatically opens once the phone is unlocked
• Simpler version of Optimus UI 3.0 for new smartphone users which organizes the main applications so that they are the easiest to access
• New Voice Shutter allows users to capture photos using only voice commands
• Special camera feature enables users to pick up the best shot among multiple images including the moment just before the shutter button is released
• New Icon Customizer provides an additional level of personalization by allowing users to set their own photos as icons and shortcut images
• Download category in the menu for easier organization.