If you own an older Android phone that runs on Android KitKat (version 4.4), it may be time to consider getting a new phone. Google has announced that it will discontinue support for Android KitKat in future releases of Google Play Services from August 2023 onwards. This means that devices running on KitKat will no longer receive updates and support from Google Play services.

Android KitKat was introduced in October 2013 and is now almost a decade old. With the rapid evolution of technology, it is impressive that there are still people using Android devices with this operating system. However, Google has decided to discontinue KitKat because very few people still use it. Less than 1% of Android users have devices running on KitKat, and it requires resources to keep supporting this outdated system.

Although Google is discontinuing support for KitKat, it’s important to note that these devices will continue to function. Google will not shut them down. However, users will not receive crucial security updates, leaving them vulnerable to potential security threats. They may also lose access to certain Google products and services, such as the Google Play Store, Gmail, and Google Maps.

To check if your Android device is running on KitKat, go to the Settings app and look for the “About Phone” or “About device” option. The version number of the operating system will be displayed, and if it says 4.4, then your device is running on Android KitKat.

If you are still using an Android device with KitKat, it is recommended to upgrade to a new phone. Ensure that you back up important files, such as photos and videos, before switching devices. You can use external storage devices or cloud services like Google Drive to back up your data.

While it is understandable that nobody wants to spend money on a new device when their current one is still functional, continuing to use an outdated operating system poses security risks. It’s not necessary to buy the newest model; there are various Android models available to suit different needs.

Consider your options carefully and make sure to back up your old device before getting rid of it. Companies like Google ultimately decide when support for older systems ends, but staying up to date with technology ensures better security and access to the latest features and services.

The post Why Android KitKat Users Need to Upgrade to a New Phone appeared first on TS2 SPACE.