Google’s Android Update Leaves Half of Devices with Reduced Functionality and Security Risks

Google has introduced a significant change to how Android apps operate depending on the user’s device. Starting in May 2025, the company will implement stricter usage of the Play Integrity API, which allows apps to evaluate the trustworthiness and security compliance of devices. This change will create a functional divide between devices running Android 13 and newer versions versus those on Android 12 and earlier. The shift could lead to apps—especially sensitive ones like financial or messaging apps—working less reliably or ceasing to function on older phones.

The impact is substantial: over 50% of Android devices have not yet upgraded to Android 13, according to the latest data. Compounding the issue, Android 12 and 12L have reached end-of-life status, meaning they no longer receive security patches directly from Google. Although some manufacturers may provide updates independently, this is not guaranteed.

Google is also pushing for higher app quality in its Play Store, resulting in the removal of over 47% of apps since early 2024. While this may enhance overall app reliability, it further limits users of older systems. Security concerns are growing, especially as many employees use personal phones for work. Unsupported phones increase the risk of vulnerabilities within enterprise networks. Google and cybersecurity experts now consider mobile devices a primary attack surface, urging organizations to take mobile threats as seriously as traditional IT risks.