Android 4.0 hacked on to Galaxy Tab 8.9
updated 05:20 pm EST, Fri December 23, 2011
ROM displays core feature functionality
Earlier this week, Samsung announced that it would be offering an Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) update for its Galaxy Tab 8.9 tablet some time during the first quarter of 2012. For those owners who are impatient, XDA-Developers has posted an unofficial ROM to bring the OS to the tablet early. The effort is in its early stages, and only limited functionality so far.
With the hack loaded, the Galaxy Tab 8.9 does boot. The touchscreen is functional, as is checking the screen orientation, Bluetooth, and sound. Hardware acceleration works when playing at least some games, such as Angry Birds, as well as accelerated transitions.
The Wi-Fi and the camera functions are still under development. Samsung hasn't given a concrete schedule for its own upgrade, but has planned most of its updates for early 2012.
