After a 10-Year Run, Google Decides to Retire Android KitKat Operating System, Citing Decreased Active Device Usage as the Main Factor.
In ShortÂ
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Starting from August 2023, the company will discontinue support for older Android OS versions.
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Google Ceases Support for KitKat in Upcoming Google Play Services Updates
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In a previous move, Google had already discontinued updates for Android Jelly Bean OS back in 2021
Google’s Decade-Old Android KitKat OS to Lose Support and Updates
In a bid to prioritize enhanced user experience and bolster security, Google has made the decision to discontinue support and updates for its decade-old Android KitKat operating system. The tech giant remains committed to concentrating efforts on newer and more secure versions of Android OS.
In a recent update posted on the Android Developers Blog, Google has made it clear that future releases of Google Play services will no longer provide support for KitKat. The company pointed out that the active device count for KitKat has declined significantly, falling below 1%, which led to this decision. Starting from August 2023, Google Play services will discontinue updates for KitKat (API levels 19 & 20).
In the latest blog post dated July 2023, it has been officially announced that the active device count for Android KitKat (KK) has dropped below 1%. As a result of this declining usage, Google will no longer be providing support for KK in future releases of Google Play services. After version 23.30.99, KitKat devices will no longer receive updates for the Play Services APK. Users are encouraged to update to the latest Android versions to ensure continued support and access to the latest features and security enhancements.
The Rise and Fall of Android KitKat: Google’s Move to Embrace Newer Horizons
Back in 2013, the release of Android KitKat marked a significant milestone, enjoying widespread popularity. However, as technology progressed rapidly over the years, Google now recognizes that the KitKat OS has grown outdated, unable to keep up with the demands of new technology and support essential security improvements. Consequently, without these critical updates, the operating system becomes vulnerable to potential security risks, posing concerns for users.
Google emphasizes that over the past decade, they have introduced numerous innovative improvements and features for Android, none of which are available on the KitKat platform. This divergence in capabilities has further pushed the need to part ways with the aged OS.
Beyond technological reasons, Google’s decision to discontinue support for KitKat is grounded in its unwavering commitment to delivering a safer and more reliable experience to its user base. By shifting resources away from older versions, Google aims to concentrate its efforts on bolstering the security and functionality of its newer Android OS offerings, ensuring users can enjoy the latest advancements without compromising on their digital safety.
Google’s Recommendations for Android Users
To ensure the best performance and security, Google advises users to upgrade their Android devices to newer versions, with Android 10 or the latest Android 11 being the preferred options. Upgrading not only grants access to the latest features and bug fixes but also ensures continued support for Android services.
For users currently on Android KitKat, Google strongly suggests considering an upgrade to a newer device that supports the latest Android versions. This step is crucial for maintaining optimal security as older Android versions are more susceptible to cyber attacks and potential threats from malicious actors online. Embracing the latest technology will help users safeguard their digital experience and stay protected in an ever-evolving digital landscape.