LG touts “unobtrusive and simple” Optimus UI 3.0 for Ice Cream Sandwich devices
If there is one major area where LG’s offerings have fallen flat in the past it has been the custom user interface deployed on their Android devices. The Korean smartphone maker hasn’t quite stuck a balance between Android functionality and value-added features. They hope to make some strides in that department with the release of the Optimus UI 3.0, which will feature on the company’s Android 4.0 devices. The UI is being touted as “unobtrusive and simple,” with enhancements that include Quick Memo — a method for quickly jotting down notes — and new lock screen features.
The highlight reel of features includes
- the ability to unlock the phone by dragging anywhere on the screen;
- a new Pattern Lock that allows users to preset the most frequently used function, such as the camera, which automatically opens once the phone is unlocked;
- a simpler version of Optimus UI 3.0 for new smartphone users which organizes the main applications so that they are the easiest to access;
- a new Voice Shutter that allows users to capture photos using only voice commands;
- a special camera feature that enables users to pick up the best shot among multiple images including the moment just before the shutter button is depressed;
- an Icon Customizer that provides an additional level of personalization by allowing users to set their own photos as icons and shortcut images;
- the addition of a Download category to the menu for easier organization.
The Optimus UI 3.0 will debut on the LG Optimus LTE II, which launches this week in Korea. It will then make its way to the LG Optimus 4X HD in June. Back at Mobile World Congress when we first got a look at some of LG’s latest hardware we proclaimed that the manufacturer would need to up its software game if it wanted to stay a relevant Android contender. Here’s hoping the new UI enhancements are a step in the right direction.
LG’S NEW OPTIMUS UI 3.0 ADDS NEW FEATURES AND FUNCTIONS WHILE BEING UNOBTRUSIVE AND SIMPLE
New User Interface Makes the LG Smartphone Experience Faster, Simpler, More Convenient
SEOUL, May 16, 2012 – LG Electronics (LG) is introducing a new User Interface (UI) for its newest Android Ice Cream Sandwich devices, aptly named Optimus UI 3.0. Optimus UI 3.0 brings with it an array of enhanced key features, including Quick Memo™ and unique unlock functions, among other new features and functions aimed at improving LG smartphone experience.
“With smartphone hardware becoming more and more similar, it’s important for manufacturers to differentiate their products from the competition through the user interface,” said Dr. Jong-seok Park, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “Both carriers and customers tell us that they want LG phones to look and feel unique and the UI plays a big part in that. LG is really going to push the boundaries of what is possible in user interfaces starting with Optimus UI 3.0.”
Optimus UI 3.0 is designed with convenience and speed in mind. A powerful memo function called Quick Memo™ enables users to jot notes on the screen using a finger. Quick Memo™ in Optimus UI 3.0 allows users to share their thoughts through social networks, text messages and e-mails more conveniently than ever before.
Other new features include:
— the ability to unlock the phone by dragging anywhere on the screen;
— a new Pattern Lock that allows users to preset the most frequently used function, such as the camera, which automatically opens once the phone is unlocked;
— a simpler version of Optimus UI 3.0 for new smartphone users which organizes the main applications so that they are the easiest to access;
— a new Voice Shutter that allows users to capture photos using only voice commands;
— a special camera feature that enables users to pick up the best shot among multiple images including the moment just before the shutter button is depressed;
— an Icon Customizer that provides an additional level of personalization by allowing users to set their own photos as icons and shortcut images;
— the addition of a Download category to the menu for easier organization.Optimus UI 3.0 will debut on the LG Optimus LTE II launching this week in Korea, followed by LG Optimus 4X HD in June.