"Project Butter" was an initiative by Google aimed at improving the performance and responsiveness of the Android operating system. Launched in 2012, it focused on enhancing the user experience by making animations smoother and reducing lag during interactions. The project introduced several optimizations, including a new rendering system and improved frame rates. These changes allowed Android devices to provide a more fluid and enjoyable experience, making them more competitive with other operating systems like iOS. Overall, Project Butter significantly contributed to the evolution of Android performance.