Android 2.3 was officially released today alongside the first device to run the new OS, the Samsung-built Nexus S. The Nexus S looks like a nice device, but it’s largely unremarkable other than the fact that it runs a clean version of Android 2.3 – a.k.a Gingerbread.

So what’s new with Android 2.3? First, there have been several UI changes, focused mainly on visual contrast and ease of use in the menu selections and navigation. There have also been changes under the hood to improve power management, with specific emphasis on background applications. It’s also easier in Android 2.3 to see what processes are using power.

There have been changes made to the system-wide input system. First, the onscreen keyboard has been redesigned with reshaped keys and tweaked key positioning. It’s also now easer to select text for copy and paste.

New VoIP features have been added which allow you to associate an SIP address with your contacts for easy over the internet calling.

Last, but not least, native support for larger, tablet-sized displays has been added.

All in all, the latest version of the Android OS is a relatively minor upgrade focused mainly on refinement; but the changes Google has made are certainly welcome ones. If you’d like to view a full list of new Android 2.3 features, check out the Platform Highlights page at the Android Developers site.

No word yet on when we can expect to see Gingerbread updates for existing Android devices, but we’ll keep you posted.