With its new range of Android 4.0 devices, LG's make a clean break with its old user interface design, starting over with the new Optimus UI 3.0. And in the run up to the launch of its upcoming flagship phones, the Optimus 4X HD and Optimus LTE II, LG's officially announced its new UI, which it says is designed to add new features, while being "unobtrusive and simple."
Of course, we've seen LG's new ICS-based software a few times before, including during our hands-on time with the Optimus 4X HD at MWC and CTIA. But until now LG's remained relatively quiet about exactly what's new in the new Optimus UI.
Among all the new features, LG's highlighting its re-vamped lockscreen, which allows the phone to be unlocked by dragging anywhere on the screen to create a window through to the apps or launcher below. And changes to pattern lock allow common apps to be automatically loaded while security features are enabled, too.
Also of interest is the new voice shutter, which enables the phone to take photos in response to voice commands. And just like leading phones from HTC and Samsung, LG's included burst-shot mode, and the ability to automatically pick the best shot from a series of snaps.
Other additions include a "downloads" category in the app drawer , and the ability to customize icons for individual app shortcuts. All interesting stuff, and we're eager to see how these features work in practice when we get our hands on LG's new stuff.
LG says Optimus UI 3.0 will launch on the Optimus LTE II in Korea this week, and internationally on the 4X HD in June. We've got the full press release after the break.

Cheap Chromebooks sell well — but it could be Google who pays a price
It's easy to reach a lot of people with cheap products. The real question is if you can keep them after.

ZTE Axon 30 Ultra shoots for the moon with three 64MP camera sensors
The new ZTE Axon 30 Ultra is taking a more traditional route with a hole-punch selfie camera while putting more focus on its triple 64MP cameras for "Super Moon Ultra" shots

Surprisingly, this Google app is better on iOS than on Android
You can get a pretty great Google experience on iOS, but in my opinion, there is only one Google app that is better on an iPhone, and it's probably not what you think. That's right, I'm here to sing the praises of Google Chrome on iOS.

The LG Velvet is stunningly gorgeous, so get a case to keep it that way
It can be tough to find a great case for a new phone, especially one with a unique and wonderful design like the LG Velvet. But thankfully, there are a lot of solid choices out there and these are our favorites to keep your LG Velvet safe from when life happens.