Android’s been an interesting study in platform design, roll-out and execution, but it’s been frustrating at times, with staggered releases, fragmented support and an unending stream of update issues.  And just as we were settling into Android FroYo 2.2, Google brings word of Gingerbread 2.3.

As happy as I am to see Google’s dedication to improving Android, I can’t wait for the anxiety around its mobile platform to settle, so we can really get a grip on its economy and potential as a marketplace.

The Netflix release is a prime example of some of the hoops a developer may have to jump through in order to have a unified release for all Android users.  The movie rental service announced over the weekend that it will be debuting on Android early next year, but will only be supporting a handful of devices for its initial release.

While Netflix is working on deals with manufacturers and carriers, the whole of the situation is indicative of Android’s separate states.  It certainly gives Apple and Microsoft a reason to gloat, though Google intends to come out on top in the end, aligning its Google TV and Chrome OS initiatives into Android’s dispersal.

And many solutions recognize the developer needs, filling in a few gaps for easy roll-out of Android and cross-platform apps.  Widgetbox and Appcelerator are two early entrants to this market, bringing solutions for dealing with mobile platforms’ uneven terrain.

Gaming is also a huge driving force encouraging the stabilization of Android’s mobile platform.  Providing solutions around this sector are also networked approaches, with companies like OpenFeint and PlaySpan making it easier to publish, market and monetize mobile games.

The increase in interest is also motivating mobile chip development, as Spansion bets the bank on chips for optimal 3D game play.  AMD has been the latest to battle Intel’s Sandy Bridge project, offering up a combo chip of its own.