Eclair (Android)

Eclair (Android)
Google LLC, AOSP · Apache License 2.0 · source
Name	Eclair
Developer	Google LLC
Initial release	October 26, 2009
Latest release	2.1 (October 26, 2009)
Programming language	Java (programming language), C++
Operating system	Android (operating system)
License	Apache License

Eclair (Android) Eclair is the codename for a major early release of the Android (operating system) mobile platform developed by Google LLC and the Open Handset Alliance. Announced and released in late 2009, Eclair followed Android 1.1 and preceded Android 2.2 "Froyo", introducing significant updates to the Android SDK, WebKit-based browser, Bluetooth (protocol), and integrated services tied to Gmail, Google Maps, and Android Market. The release aimed to broaden device compatibility across manufacturers like HTC Corporation, Motorola Mobility, and Samsung Electronics while expanding APIs for application developers and service providers.

Overview

Eclair, designated as Android 2.0/2.1, represented a consolidation of Android Open Source Project efforts to support faster hardware such as the Qualcomm and Texas Instruments chipsets used in devices like the Motorola Droid and Nexus One. The update emphasized enhancements to core components including the Dalvik (software), Linux kernel, and the Android platform's native libraries, enabling richer applications from publishers such as Facebook, Twitter, Adobe Systems, Zipcar, and media partners including YouTube and Pandora (service). Carrier partners including Verizon Communications, T-Mobile US, and Vodafone coordinated deployments with manufacturers and the Android Market ecosystem.

Features and Improvements

Eclair introduced multiple user-facing and under-the-hood improvements. Key additions included support for Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync integration for business users, enhanced HTML5 and CSS rendering in the Internet (web browser), improved camera capabilities with support for higher resolutions and multiple camera sensors used by manufacturers such as Sony Ericsson and LG Electronics, and expanded Bluetooth AVRCP and A2DP profiles for accessory interoperability with vendors like Plantronics and Bose Corporation. Eclair also added support for Google Maps Navigation features tied to Assisted GPS hardware and integrated with services from MapQuest-competing platforms. Performance optimizations to the Dalvik virtual machine and JIT-like bytecode handling improved application responsiveness for titles from Gameloft, Electronic Arts, and Zynga ports.

User Interface and Design

The user interface refinements in Eclair built on design language pioneered by earlier Android efforts and closely aligned with device skins by OEMs such as HTC Corporation's HTC Sense and Samsung Electronics's TouchWiz. Interface changes included revamped home screen shortcuts, animated transitions utilizing the Linux kernel framebuffer, and contact management improvements integrating with Google Contacts and social networks like LinkedIn. The lock screen, notification system, and virtual keyboard received incremental enhancements to support multiple keyboards including third-party offerings from Swype and localization for markets served by China Mobile and NTT Docomo.

Developer APIs and Platform Changes

Eclair expanded the Android SDK with numerous API additions and behavioral changes affecting application compatibility. New APIs targeted the Camera (device) framework, Bluetooth (protocol) stacks, and calendar providers interoperating with Microsoft Exchange Server and CalDAV-based services. The release updated the Android NDK capabilities for native code via C++ libraries and provided hooks for third-party developers to leverage Google Maps API features, richer Multitouch gestures, and refined intents for interacting with system components. Enterprises and ISVs such as SAP SE and Oracle Corporation evaluated the platform for mobile workforce deployments as Eclair matured the security model and permissions architecture.

Device Support and Distribution

Eclair rolled out across a class of handsets and carriers, notably debuting on devices like the Motorola Droid and later the HTC Desire and Google Nexus One through partnerships with Verizon Communications, T-Mobile US, and international resellers. Hardware vendors including Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics, Sony Ericsson, and Huawei Technologies incorporated Eclair into their 2009–2010 portfolios, while smaller ODMs in regions served by China Telecom and Orange S.A. produced budget devices. Distribution channels included the Android Market for app delivery, over-the-air updates coordinated by carriers, and developer images provided via the Android Open Source Project repositories.

Reception and Legacy

Industry reviewers from outlets such as The New York Times, Wired (magazine), CNET, and TechCrunch noted that Eclair significantly improved Android's competitiveness against platforms like iOS and Windows Mobile. Analysts at Gartner and IDC observed accelerated smartphone adoption aided by Eclair's enhancements, while platform critics highlighted fragmentation issues later addressed by subsequent releases like Gingerbread and Ice Cream Sandwich. Eclair's API additions and performance improvements laid groundwork for an expanding ecosystem of applications from companies including Google Play publishers, shaping mobile development paradigms adopted by enterprises and startups alike.

Category:Android (operating system) versions