Attention all users with smartphones running on the old Android KitKat operating system! Google has recently made a significant announcement that it will no longer provide update alerts or support for such devices. The tech giant aims to prioritize the latest, more secure versions of the Android operating system, ensuring a better user experience and enhanced safety.
Google Ends Support for Android KitKat: What Users Need to Know
Google shared on the Android Developers Blog that it will halt the release of Google Play Service support for Android KitKat in the coming days. The company revealed that the number of active users with KitKat OS has dwindled to below one percent, making it unfeasible to continue updates for KitKat API level 19 and 20 after August 2023. Any Play Services APKs older than 23.30.99 will no longer be accessible.
Upgrading to Ensure Safety: Google’s Announcement on KitKat OS
Introduced in 2013, the Android KitKat operating system had served its purpose for a long time. However, due to technological advancements, Google has now deemed KitKat OS outdated, unable to support updates related to new technologies. Many recent updates and features introduced by Android are no longer compatible with KitKat.
Google urges users to upgrade their Android devices to newer versions like Android 10 or the latest Android 11 to ensure safety and access to the latest features. Upgrading will also provide users with bug-fixing options and continued Android service. It is worth noting that earlier in 2021, Google had withdrawn support for the Jelly Bean operating system on API 16 and 18.