This refers to a base, uncustomized version of the Android 4.0 operating system, also known as Ice Cream Sandwich. It lacks manufacturer-specific modifications or additions. A device running this system presents the user interface and core functionality intended by Google without any proprietary enhancements.
Its significance lies in representing a standardized platform for application development and device compatibility. It allowed developers to target a common set of APIs, improving the reach of their applications. It offered a unified interface for both smartphones and tablets, addressing fragmentation issues of earlier Android versions. It offered improvements to the user interface, performance, and features such as face unlock.