ThunderBolt by HTC is the next smartphone to be upgraded to Android 4.0, Ice Cream Sandwich. The software upgrade will start getting pushed in phases, which began yesterday.

The upgrade features Face Unlock, where users can easily unlock their phone with face recognition, no typing required. A new Usage Center lends the ability to monitor data usage in one place; users can set warning levels, check app usage or turn off data completely. The upgrade also features a customizable launch bar, which allows for apps, shortcuts and folders to be easily dragged in and out of the bar for access from the home screen.

Additional information on the Ice Cream Sandwich upgrade can be found on the ThunderBolt by HTC support page.