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.