Android Central

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.

VPN Deals: Lifetime license for $16, monthly plans at $1 & more

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.

 
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.