[Android] Install And Run Android 4.0 On Mac, Windows PC Or Linux Using VirtualBox Virtual Machine

Android 4.0 is an operating system in its own right, but instead of running on a dual boot setup, we install and run ICS within a free of charge virtualization application known as VirtualBox. VirtualBox runs like any other application or program on your machine, but offers the benefits of being able to install a secondary OS within it which can be invoked quickly by the user. For all those die hard iOS and Windows Phone fans out there, this is a perfect way to experience the delights of Android.

Follow these simple steps below:

1. Head over to the official Oracle VM VirtualBox site and download a VirtualBox program following your operating system (Windows/Mac OSX/Linux) then install it

2. Head on over to the VMLite website and download a copy of the Ice Cream Sandwich which has been preconfigured for virtualization and features seamless mouse support for navigation. The download weighs in at 88MB in size so may take a while to download depending on your connection.

3. Locate the downloaded ‘Android-v4.7z‘ file and extract the contents from within. After extracting, double click on a file named 'Android-v4.vbox'

4. Then you should see the following screen below

5. Click start and if required select the ‘Android Startup from /dev/sda‘ option. Enjoy!!!

The performance of the Android ICS virtual installation will obviously not be as smooth as intended on an actual device built for purpose, but it does give a feel of the OS with apps being able to launch as well as widget customization.

[via redmonpie.com]