14 DAY TRIAL // Sony Ericsson’s Xperia arc smartphone is the latest Android device out there to get a better taste of Google’s latest OS release, Ice Cream Sandwich.
The new Android 4.0.3 ICS platform landed on Xperia arc courtesy of a CyanogenMod ROM, which is currently available only in an alpha flavor.
Since it is only in its early stages of development, the build is not fully functional. Those users who would like to download and install it should be aware that this is unofficial software, and that they will have to alter their handsets to install it.
This is the first Alpha release of CyanogenMod 9.0 for the Xperia arc, and should be followed by subsequent versions, until a stable flavor is made available.
The ROM arrives as a result of the collaboration between the CyanogenMod team and the people behind FreeXperia. Sony Ericsson also offered support for the release of this custom ROM.
The handset vendor already made available its own Ice Cream Sandwich update for some Xperia users, but the new software is a bit different, being capable of offering an experience closer to the stock Android flavor.
For the time being, however, the photo snapper, USB Mass Storage and MTP are not working in Android 4.0.3 for Xperia arc.
On the other hand, the GSM connectivity is working, Bluetooth, GPS, and Wi-Fi as well, along with the handset’s touchscreen display, partial 3D graphics, and the wireless tethering features. Audio is working, as well, and video recording is also said to be working.
Users interested in giving the software a try should head over to this thread on the xda-developers forum. The CM9.0 Alpha ROM for the Xperia arc is available for download via github.
Before giving the new software a try, users should keep in mind that this is an unofficial release and that they will have to root their handsets to install it. This means voiding the phone’s warranty in the process. Users who will install the software will be the only ones to be held responsible if anything goes wrong.