The newest iteration of Android is almost ready. Android 2.3, or Android Gingerbread, will supposedly be released the first week of December, although rumors and hints have been teasing Android fans for weeks. The improvements include a total graphical overhaul that features a redesigned notification bar and more uniform, streamlined looking icons for a sleeker look. This is in response to complaints that Android isn’t one of the most aesthetically pleasing Smartphones on the market. The interface will also have a noticeably greener hue keeping with the overall green motif of Android.
While limited changes have been officially announced, Phandroids can anticipate improvements in function as well as beauty. Upgrades such as speed and better gaming are rumored to make an appearance in this sweet gadget as well as support for video chat. Along the same lines, an updated Google Voice application will also be built in to the Gingerbread. However, the biggest new feature is Near Field Communication (NFC) technology- a feature that allows mobile transactions.
While many of the improvements are just hints and speculation, we can be sure that the Gingerbread will be sweet. Many questions are popping up, one of them being whether or not older versions of Android, such as Froyo and Eclair will be able to be upgraded to Gingerbread. Also, it is unclear if the interface’s new look will make old skins obsolete.
While it looks as though Android Gingerbread is still cooking, I think it’s safe to say it will be out of the oven in time for the holidays. I also happen to know one blogger who recently dropped her phone in the sink and wouldn’t mind seeing this in her stocking this year!
Have an Android? Looking forward to an upgrade? Let us know what you think!
