Google ‘kills’ Android for millions putting owners of older phones in danger

GOOGLE has announced that it will be ending support for Android 4.4 KitKat.

Launched in 2013, Android KitKat (KK) is the 11th Android mobile operating system.

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KitKat focused mostly on optimizing the operating systems for entry-level devices.

Now, the tech giant said Android KitKat is no longer receiving support beyond version 23.30.99 from the Google Play Store.

In an announcement, Google revealed that this new change will occur starting in August 2023.

“As of July 2023, the active device count on KK is below 1 percent as more and more users update to the latest Android versions,” Google noted.

“Therefore, we are no longer supporting KK in future releases of Google Play services,” it added.

The main reason behind dropping support for KitKat is that Google instead wants to improve Play services for newer versions of Android.

Google’s decision marks the first time since 2021 that the company has dropped support for a major release of Android.

Back then, the tech giant axed Android 4.1, 4.2, and 4.3 Jelly Bean.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

This means that devices running on KitKat will no longer receive updates related to the Google Play Store.

Updating your operating system makes sure your device has access to the newest security measures available.

Security updates patch various vulnerabilities, eliminating the need for you to spend money on antivirus software.

Vice versa, if you aren’t able to update, your Android device will be more susceptible to malware and bugs.

WHAT CAN I DO?

The best option for Android users running KitKat is to get a newer device.

You can find more information on upgrading your phone here.