Android 2.3 Gingerbread

Android 2.3 (otherwise known as Gingerbread) was released on the 6th December, 2010.

Linux

Android 2.3 is based on linux kernel 2.6.35, which is a bugfix of earlier 2.6 versions.

Improvements in 2.3

• Updated user interface design with increased simplicity and speed
• Support for extra-large screen sizes and resolutions (WXGA and higher)
• Native support for SIP VoIP internet telephony
• Faster, more intuitive text input in virtual keyboard, with improved accuracy, better suggested text and voice input mode
• Enhanced copy/paste functionality, allowing users to select a word by press-hold, copy, and paste
• Support for Near Field Communication (NFC), allowing the user read an NFC tag embedded in a poster, sticker, or advertisement
• New audio effects such as reverb, equalization, headphone virtualization, and bass boost
• New Download Manager, giving users easy access to any file downloaded from the browser, email, or another application
• Support for multiple cameras on the device, including a front-facing camera, if available
• Support for WebM/VP8 video playback, and AAC audio encoding
• Improved power management with a more active role in managing apps that are keeping the device awake for too long
• Enhanced support for native code development
• Switched from YAFFS to ext4 on newer devices
• Audio, graphical, and input enhancements for game developers
• Concurrent garbage collection for increased performance
• Native support for more sensors (such as gyroscopes and barometers)

2.3.3

• Released on 9 February 2011, Android 2.3.3 included several improvements and API fixes.

2.3.4

• Version 2.3.4 introduced support for voice or video chat using Google Talk.

2.3.5

Released on 25 July 2011, Android 2.3.5 included a number of amendments:

• Improved network performance for the Nexus S 4G, among other fixes and improvements
• Fixed Bluetooth bug on Samsung Galaxy S
• Improved Gmail application
• Shadow animations for list scrolling
• Camera software enhancements
• Improved battery efficiency

2.3.6

• This version fixed a voice search bug.

2.3.7

• Android 2.3.7 introduced Google Wallet support for the Nexus S 4G.