There has been much talk about fragmentation across the Android platform over the past several months.  A few weeks ago, we published an article discussing two ways in which Google might put an end to the problem - one of which was slowing down the release of OS updates (which should become less necessary as the platform approaches stability).

To briefly recap the release schedule to date, version 1.5 was released toward the end of April 2009, followed by 1.6 the following September (4.5 months later).  Just over a month later, version 2.0 was released in October of 2009 followed closely by 2.0.1 in December and 2.1 in early January of 2010.  No doubt it's been a fast journey for Android, and difficult for many to keep up at such a quick pace of development.

That being said, we get to the crux of the article: Android 2.2.  There have been rumors of an OTA update for the Nexus One coming down the pike.  Similar rumors suggest that this update could be an upgrade from Eclair to Froyo (Android 2.2).  To add fuel to the fire, AndroidandMe is reporting that they have seen analytics reports suggesting that "Google has already begun testing on their next firmware - Android 2.2."  AndroidandMe is quick to admit that this type of data can easily be faked, but that upon further research (read: speaking to the infamous "people familiar with the matter") sources have confirmed that the next iteration of Android OS is being tested.

Some suspect that we will see 2.2 on or about May 19, which by no coincidence at all is the date of the Google I/O developer conference - the perfect time to release a new SDK.  Here are some of the rumored features for the update (thanks to AndroidandMe):

• JIT compiler
• Free additional RAM
• OpenGL ES 2.0 enhancements
• Flash 10.1 support
• Fixed problem with “crazy screen” / Resolution of cross multitouch
• Activation of Color Trackball
• Enable FM radio

It's only been about three months since the release of OS 2.1, and just after rumors of the end of fragmentation approaching, we are starting to hear rumors of the next iteration of Android (a potential cause for added fragmentation).  I'm not sure what the implications of OS 2.2 coming out in May would be, I just hope that it doesn't add to the problem and further alienate consumers debating the switch.  Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments.

Via AndroidandMe