Skip to main content

HTC Thunderbolt users, you can stop crying! You’re getting Android 4.0

thunderbolt-ICSHTC Thunderbolt owners rejoice! You’ve been putting up with horrible battery life and a bulky phone for way too long, but finally, after months of waiting, HTC and Verizon are planning to give you a small gift for your patience. Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich has been released for the device. While it’s no 4.1 Jelly Bean, it’s certainly bringing many desired features to the aging device.

Android version 4.0, also known as Ice Cream Sandwich, was released back in late 2011, and while many users of the popular Google operating system are already lining up for the latest edition, Android Jelly Bean, not all smartphone owners are as fortunate  For some, specifically those who own devices from 2011 or earlier, it can become difficult to keep getting updates for all the great features you want. HTC Thunderbolt owners are now getting the ICS update after months of speculation. While August was the original date for the update to go out, several issues kept it from being released. In December, a Twitter post restored excitement with HTC hinting an update was around the corner. While it’s been nearly two months since that Twitter post, it’s always better to be late than to never release an update.

Verizon has started a staggered roll out of the update is currently being staggered, meaning that even if you haven’t gotten it yet for your device then keep your eyes out for it in the coming days. Users will enjoy all sorts of new features including notifications from the lockscreen, and the Ice Cream Sandwich app-switcher screen. Sadly though, at this rate it’s anyone’s guess as to when the Thunderbolt will get Jelly Bean. We’re guessing, never.

Editors' Recommendations

Joshua Sherman
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Joshua Sherman is a contributor for Digital Trends who writes about all things mobile from Apple to Zynga. Josh pulls his…
A big iPhone update is right around the corner
An iPhone 15 Pro Max sitting upright, showing one of its home screens.

With announcements for 2024 models of the iPad Air and iPad Pro, today's been a busy day of Apple news. But the iPad isn't the only Apple product in the news today. Following the big announcements from its event earlier this morning, Apple also shared some important news regarding the next iPhone update.

As of Tuesday, May 7, Apple has begun rolling out RC builds for iOS 17.5. RC stands for "Release Candidate," and it's the last beta version of a software update that Apple releases before its final public rollout. In other news, the official iOS 17.5 update should be right around the corner.

Read more
Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Do you really need to upgrade?
Google Pixel 8a vs Pixel 7a.

The Google Pixel 8a (left) and Google Pixel 7a Bryan M. Wolfe / Digital Trends

The new Google Pixel 8a has entered the market to compete in the budget smartphone category. It has officially replaced the Google Pixel 7a, which was launched in 2023. Although the two phones' appearances are quite similar, the newer model boasts several improvements under the hood, making it considerably superior.

Read more
Match with Mom: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 has a BOGO deal for Mother’s Day
Someone wearing the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6.

If you're still thinking what to gift your mom for Mother's Day, why not get matching smartwatches? Samsung is currently offering a buy one, get one deal for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6. If you purchase the 40mm, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi model for $300 or the 44mm, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi model for $330, you'll get another one for free. However, if you want to have the wearable devices delivered in time for the holiday -- and to make sure that you're still able to take advantage of the BOGO offer -- you're going to have to complete the transaction right now.

Why you should buy the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6
Even if your mom isn't tech savvy, she'll be able to make the most out of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, which we've identified as the best smartwatch for Android in our roundup of the best smartwatches. The wearable device features a Super AMOLED screen with sapphire crystal glass coating for durability, an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, and a 5ATM underwater resistance. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 is equipped with Samsung’s 3-in–1 BioActive Sensor that houses the the optical heart rate, electrical heart signal, and bioelectrical impedance analysis sensors. These sensors enable health monitoring capabilities for steps taken, sleep, heart rate, ECG, and skin temperature, among many other important statistics.

Read more