Google is set to implement significant changes to how applications function on Android devices, starting next month. This transition will allow apps to operate differently based on the version of the operating system installed on a user’s phone. Unfortunately, this shift may lead to disruptions in the performance of critical applications, including finance and messaging tools, affecting more than half of all Android users.
Play Integrity API and Its Implications
The driving force behind this change is the Play Integrity API, which Google describes as a vital resource for safeguarding businesses against various forms of abuse, such as fraud and data theft. According to Google, apps utilizing Play Integrity features have experienced an impressive 80% reduction in unauthorized usage compared to those that do not.
However, the updated technology introduces a distinction between devices running Android 12 and those with newer versions. For devices operating on Android 13 and above, the experience is expected to be faster, more reliable, and more private. In contrast, those still on Android 12 or older may encounter slower performance, impacting a substantial number of devices—specifically, half of all Android phones currently in use.
Enhanced Security Signals for Developers
In addition to the Play Integrity API, Google is incorporating “enhanced security signals.” These signals will empower developers to assess the trustworthiness of the device running their application. Developers have been informed that they can tailor app performance based on whether the device is running Android 12 or lower, compared to those on Android 13 and higher. This includes the ability to verify how recently a phone has been updated.
Earlier this year, Google introduced these developer changes on an opt-in basis, with a firm deadline set for automatic updates by May 2025. Recent data reveals that over half of all Android devices have yet to upgrade to Android 13 or a later version, a situation that is more dire than previously anticipated. It was already known that at least one-third of Android devices were out of support.
Moreover, approximately 200 million users still on Android 12 face an even more pressing issue. As reported by Android Authority, Google has ceased backporting security patches to Android 12 and 12L, as both operating systems have reached their end-of-life status. While device manufacturers may provide temporary support, relying on this is not advisable due to the complexities and costs involved. Android Authority strongly suggests that users with Android 12 or 12L devices consider upgrading if they prioritize security.
In summary, for those not yet on Android 13 or higher, an operating system update is essential, and a phone upgrade may soon become necessary to ensure optimal performance and security.
