The van’s around the corner: Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich software upgrade coming to 2011 Xperia smartphones starting from mid-April

During Mobile World Congress I was lucky enough to taste an actual Ice Cream Sandwich (or two) at the Google booth, and you’ll all be able to experience this sweet software treat on our 2011 Xperia smartphones, starting with the first models from mid-April.
Our developers have been hard-at-work to ensure we’re on track and the highest standards are met to deliver you the best possible user experience on Xperia 2011 smartphones with the upgrade to Android 4.0 platform release.
The first Xperia models to receive the upgrade will be Xperia arc S, Xperia neo V and Xperia ray. For these first models, the rollout will start mid-April and continue over 4-6 weeks.*
Following on, Xperia arc, Xperia PLAY, Xperia neo, Xperia mini, Xperia mini pro, Xperia pro, Xperia active and Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman will receive their scoop starting from the end of May/early June.*
We’ll get back to you once the rollout begins to keep you in the loop with progress and to tackle any questions you might have – as I said, please don’t worry if your kit (customized software specific to your operator and handset) isn’t immediately accessible; they will be made available as soon as they’re ready to go.
The latest version of Android 4.0 is a very powerful OS, brimming with new features and functionality, but it also requires more resource from your smartphone and this may impact performance in some user scenarios. To ensure it’s suitable, and performs for your individual needs, my friends at Developer World have taken a closer-look at how Ice Cream Sandwich will change your 2011 Xperia smartphone – check it out here.
Because this update is a significant revamp of some of your phone’s features, we want to make sure you take a conscious and informed decision to upgrade, so that you continue to enjoy optimum experiences from your Xperia smartphone.
Therefore, we’ll only be making it available for download via PC Companion and Bridge for Mac (i.e. not over the air via 3G or WiFi), and you also won’t receive any update requests or notifications.
Again, we will get back to you with more information in mid-April when the rollout begins.
Finally, with regards to our all new Sony Xperia S, which will be upgraded to Android 4.0 starting from the later part of the second quarter, we will get back with more detailed information on timing over the next weeks.
Talk soon, Ant.
*The availability and scheduling of this software upgrade and specific models upgradeable to Android 4.0 will vary by market and carrier requirements.