Ice Cream Sandwich to Debut on Samsung Tablets and Smartphones

It's good news for Android and Samsung fans alike, as the Ice Cream Sandwich operating system is ready to make its debut on Samsung tablets and smartphones.

The new Android update made its maiden appearance on the famed Galaxy Nexus in October and looks all set to consolidate its presence over a wider product base. Galaxy S2 and Galaxy Note are expected to be the first of these devices to get the update - as early as the first quarter of 2012. It will then be followed by the rest.

As per Samsung's blog post, the ICS-upgradeable smartphones include Galaxy S2, Galaxy S2 LTE, Galaxy Note and Galaxy R, and the upgrade-ready tablets include Galaxy Tab 10.1, Galaxy Tab 8.9, Galaxy Tab 7.7, and Galaxy Tab 7.0 Plus.

What's new? The latest Android update is expected to offer a completely revamped user interface, including enhanced multitasking capability, notifications, Wi-Fi hotspot, NFC support and superior Web browsing experience.

The refreshed interface features a new People App which will allow users to add pictures, post messages and receive real-time social networking updates from friends, family and colleagues. It also adds a new Face Unlock feature which eliminates the need for remembering cumbersome passwords and uses facial recognition to unlock the smartphone.

Furthermore, it employs the novel NFC technology for instant sharing of Web pages, apps and YouTube videos through mere touch contact between two devices. The revamped interface is expected to boost the user experience with better touch response and enhanced user interface.