As Android's Ice Cream Sandwich operating system nears its launch, AT&T is updating its LG Optimus 3-D phones with the next best thing, Gingerbread.

The update, promised by LG from its launch, was done over the air with on-screen prompts for the update and a reboot after the installation. The update is also made available to all AT&T mobile phones.

The Optimus 3-D is the second mobile phone to offer 3-D viewing technology without glasses or extra 3-D hardware. The phone has a dual-core processor, 8GB of memory and 512 Mb of memory with 32GB expandable SDcard. The most distinguishing feature of the device is that it is also equipped with two cameras in the rear to enable capture of 3D images and video. The phone will be available exclusively from Optus in Australia. Currently, the HTC Evo the only phone available in Australia capable of taking 3D images.

AT&tT also announced a cut from the Sept. 4 launch price of $99 USD to $19 USD with two years of locked-in service. Optus has the phone listed at $49 AUSD for two years' service.

With the holiday season coming, many manufacturers and companies are rolling out their new hi-tech merchandise for public consumption. Leading the competition is Apple with an announcement tomorrow about the upcoming iPhone 5. On the Android scene is the most anticipated Android 2.3 Ice Cream Sandwich which closes the gap between Android 2.2 Gingerbread and Android Honeycomb. This season has also seen the launch of the e-reader Kindle Fire, and following that will be the next Nook Color.

The update to Gingerbread from Froyo might be close for Australia as it is only a matter of Optus updating their subscribers' phones. As of now, there are no indications from Optus when this update is going to happen.