If you are a user of Android smartphones running Android 4.4 KitKat, you will not receive any further updates from Google Play starting August 2023. The decision to discontinue support for this outdated version of Android is being made almost a decade after its initial launch.
According to Google’s Android Developer Blog, less than 1% of all Android devices are still running on Android KitKat. Most device manufacturers have already ceased their support for devices running on this version. While some might still provide upgrades to newer Android versions, the majority will not.
In a statement, Google mentioned: “The Android KitKat platform was introduced approximately a decade ago. Since then, numerous innovative enhancements and features have been introduced for Android, none of which are available on KitKat. As of July 2023, the active device count using KitKat has dropped below 1% as more users transition to the latest Android releases. Consequently, we will no longer offer support for KitKat in upcoming Google Play services updates. KitKat devices will not receive any Play Services APK versions beyond 23.30.99.”
Many applications and games are no longer compatible with Android 4.4, but there still exist some apps, or older app versions, that can be utilized by users of this system on a daily basis.
Google’s choice to discontinue support for Google Play Services on Android 4.4 devices further restricts the services available on these devices. This service is instrumental for Google in distributing updates to user devices and supporting various Google services, including sign-in functions.
Developers that continue to cater to Android 4.4 users may soon cease their support for this version, particularly if they exclusively distribute their apps and games via Google Play and not through other sources such as F-Droid.
Google has stated that KitKat devices will not be getting Play Services APK versions beyond 23.30.99.
Individuals using KitKat devices may encounter challenges while using their devices. These issues could range from being unable to access Google Play for downloading or updating apps, difficulties in signing in to services, to problems with launching applications on their devices.
As Günter Born highlights, the termination of support spells the end for these devices. While basic functions like making phone calls or sending SMS messages may still be functional, most services will cease to work. However, the termination of support does not render the devices completely useless overnight.
Owners of KitKat devices are advised to check for Android OS updates to prolong the functionality of their devices. Another alternative might be switching to custom ROMs, although this option is not universally available for all devices.
Some devices may still be eligible for updates to Android 5 Lollypop.
Your Turn: which Android versions are currently running on your mobile devices?
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