A mobile operating system, launched in 2011, aimed to unify the smartphone and tablet experiences under a single platform. It introduced features such as an updated user interface, face unlock, and Android Beam for near-field communication (NFC) data transfer. One notable example is its introduction of on-screen navigation buttons to replace physical buttons on some devices.
This iteration was significant for improving the visual appeal and usability of the Android ecosystem. It provided a more consistent and refined user experience across a wider range of devices. The unified design language helped to streamline development for app creators, leading to a more robust and feature-rich application catalog. Further, it offered advancements in multitasking and notifications, contributing to increased productivity.