Google continues to phase out older versions of Android. According to a statement from the company, support for Google Play services on Android 4.4 KitKat devices will end in August. This means that devices running KitKat will no longer have access to Google applications such as the Google Play Store, Gmail, Maps and YouTube.
Android 4.4 KitKat will not be supported
Google Play services are the building blocks of Android devices. The absence of these services on the device also means that Google products cannot be used. Google, on the other hand, leaves older versions of Android to their fate by not providing Play Services updates.
The technology giant, which last dropped support for Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, has finally announced that it is KitKat’s turn. Devices running KitKat will still be able to use Play Services, but will no longer receive security updates or bug fixes.
The lack of updates from Google means that devices will be vulnerable to malware and security threats. Some popular apps may also not work properly on KitKat starting in August.
Google said last week that less than 1 percent of the Android Market is running KitKat. However, if you have an Android device running KitKat, we recommend that you upgrade to a newer Android as soon as possible.
On the other hand, Google shared the latest beta update for Android 14. The features that are expected to come with Android 14 are as follows:
- Emoji Lab application where you can create your own wallpaper with special shapes and patterns.
- New wallpaper-compatible themes.
- Preview your wallpaper before you use it.
- Ability to set the first day of the week, which calendar to use, and temperature units.
- Ability to change the color of the phone’s LED light.
- New document and picture sharing options.
- Interface improvements for the Settings application.
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