Every year the Android mobile operating system is undergoing significant changes, and Google is phasing out support for older versions. This is a natural process of evolution aimed at improving security and introducing new features. However, for device owners who no longer receive updates, this means that their gadgets become vulnerable to modern cyber threats. Understanding which versions of the operating system have reached the end of their support cycle is critical for every user.
When Google announces the end of support for a particular version of Android, it not only affects the lack of new features, but also the cessation of security patches. This means that any new vulnerabilities discovered by researchers will no longer be patched at the system level. For the user, this creates real risks when using banking applications, online payments and storing personal data. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the current status of various OS versions and explain what to do if your smartphone is on the obsolete list.
It is important to note that the lifespan of an Android device often depends not only on Google, but also on the hardware manufacturer. However, it is Google's support policy that sets the tone and determines the basic security of the ecosystem. If you are still using a device based on Android 6.0 Marshmallow or earlier versions, you should immediately consider replacing the gadget or, at a minimum, making a radical change in your usage habits.
Current status of support for Android versions
Today, Google maintains support only for relatively recent versions of the operating system. The company follows a strategy in which the latest three major versions are considered current, and sometimes one or two older ones if they still have a wide user base and receive security patches. However, with the release of Android 14 i Android 15 the landscape has changed significantly, and many once popular versions have become "End of Life" (EOL).
Google has officially stopped issuing security updates for versions below Android 8.0 Oreo. This means that devices running Android 7.1 Nougat, 7.0 Nougat, 6.0 Marshmallow and earlier are completely unprotected against vulnerabilities discovered after the end of support date. For such systems, critical security holes remain open forever, which makes their use on the modern Internet dangerous.
⚠️ Attention: The lack of security updates means that your device can be infected with malware even when visiting popular sites. Do not use older versions of Android to enter passwords for bank accounts.
It is also worth considering that smartphone manufacturers may stop supporting their models even earlier than Google stops updating the operating system itself. For example, a phone may come out with Android 9, but the manufacturer will not release an update for it to Android 10, although Google still supported this version. In this case, the device formally runs on a supported version of the OS, but does not receive an upgrade to the current one.
List of discontinued Android versions support
In order to accurately determine the status of your device, you need to know the exact version of the operating system. Below is a detailed list of versions that are no longer supported by Google. Owners of these devices are advised to exercise special caution.
- 📉 Android 5.1 Lollipop and below: Complete cessation of all services. Applications stop working, browsers do not open modern sites.
- 🔒 Android 6.0 Marshmallow: Critical vulnerability. The last security update came out several years ago. Not recommended for use.
- ⚠️ Android 7.0 and 7.1 Nougat: Official support has ended. Many modern applications, including banking ones, stop running on these versions.
- 🛑 Android 8.0 and 8.1 Oreo: They are at risk. Although some patches may have been released later, at the moment this version is considered outdated for new functions.
Particular attention should be paid to devices based on Android 6.0 i 7.0. For a long time they were considered quite modern, but time is inexorable. Today, launching modern versions of instant messengers, such as WhatsApp or Telegram, on these OSs is no longer possible or limited. Browsers such as Google Chrome have also stopped releasing updates for these platforms, leaving users with leaky versions.
If your device is running one of the versions listed, you are in the so-called "gray area". Formally, the phone can turn on and even make calls, but its functionality as a smart device is rapidly degrading. The critical security threshold today is Android 8.0, below which using the device for online operations is strictly not recommended.
Consequences of using outdated versions of Android
Using an unsupported version of the operating system entails a number of negative consequences that go beyond mere inconvenience. The most important thing is data security. Hackers are well aware of the vulnerabilities that exist in older versions of Android and actively use them for attacks.
In addition, users are faced with software compatibility problems. Application developers rely on the latest API versions provided by Google. When support for an old version ends, developers gradually remove it from the list of supported platforms in their applications.
- 📱 Lack of new features: You will not receive new emoji, interface improvements, widgets and privacy features.
- 🐌 Reduced performance: New versions of applications may run slower on older system cores, causing lags and freezing.
- 🔋 Battery problems: Optimizing power consumption in new applications is often tied to new system libraries that are missing in older Androids.
Another important aspect is the operation of Google Play services. Although the app store may continue to operate, its functionality may be reduced. Some applications may simply not appear in the search or display an error when trying to install. This creates a vicious circle: you can't update apps because they require a new OS, and the OS can't be updated.
Is it possible to install a new version of Android on an old phone?
Theoretically, enthusiasts can install custom ROM (for example, LineageOS) that is based on a newer version of Android. However, this requires unlocking the bootloader, which will void the warranty and may damage the device if done incorrectly. For the average user, this path is too risky.
Impact on security and application operation
Security is the first and most important aspect that suffers when using outdated software. Google Play Protect, the built-in protection system may not work correctly or may not have up-to-date virus signature databases for older versions of the OS. This makes the device an easy target for Trojans and spyware.
Banking applications are the most sensitive to OS versions. Banks are strict about security and often require a certain minimum version of Android to run their clients. If your version is lower than the required one, the application simply will not open or will require a system update that cannot be completed.
| Android version | Google support status | Security risk | Banking applications operation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android 13-15 | Full support | Low | Stable |
| Android 11-12 | Limited support | Medium | Stable |
| Android 9-10 | Discontinued (patches are rare) | High | Possibly limited |
| Android 8 and below | Ceased completely | Critical | Does not work or is limited |
It’s also worth mentioning how browsers work. The modern web is filled with complex code, and older browser engines on unsupported Android cannot display pages or execute scripts correctly. This can cause even simple websites to look broken or not load at all.
⚠️ Attention: If your banking app stops working on your phone due to your Android version, don't try to bypass this limitation by installing older versions of APK files from unverified sources. This is a direct path to stealing money.
How to check and update the Android version
Before you panic, you need to know exactly what version of the operating system is installed on your device. The verification process is quite simple and takes less than a minute. You need to go to the settings of your smartphone.
Depending on the phone model and the manufacturer’s shell, the path may differ slightly, but the general algorithm is the same. Typically, system information is hidden in the lower sections of the settings menu. Find "About phone" or "System".
☑️ Checking Android version
If you find that your version is outdated, the first step should be to check for official updates. Manufacturers often release patches even for older models, if the hardware allows it. Go to the section Settings → System → System update and click the check button.
If the official update is not available, you have several options. You may consider purchasing a new device, which is the safest option. Alternatively, for advanced users it is possible to install custom firmware, but this requires deep technical knowledge.
Before any manipulations with the system, be sure to make a complete backup of your data to Google Drive or to your computer. This will save your photos and contacts in case of failure.
Alternatives and ways to protect old devices
If buying a new smartphone right now is not possible, and the device runs on an unsupported version of Android, you need to take additional precautions. Your goal is to minimize the attack surface and reduce risks.
First of all, limit the use of such a device. Do not connect bank cards to it, do not store important documents in the cloud accessible from this phone, and do not use it to log into major social networking accounts. Turn it into a device for calls, music or navigation (offline).
- 🛡️ Installing an antivirus: Use reliable mobile antiviruses that still support your OS version for periodic scanning.
- 🚫 Refusal of root access: On older devices, having root access significantly increases vulnerability. If they exist, delete them.
- 🌐 Limiting application rights: Manually revoke all permissions from applications, especially access to the microphone, camera and geolocation.
You can also try using alternative application stores or light versions of apps (Lite), which require fewer resources and can run on older systems. However, remember that their security may also be in question.
⚠️ Attention: Information about version support and application requirements may change. Always check the current requirements in the application description on Google Play or on the official website of the device manufacturer.
The most reliable way to protect data on outdated Android is not to use it for sensitive operations (banking, government services) and consider buying a budget modern smartphone.
How long does Google support versions Android?
Usually Google provides support for major updates and security patches for the latest 3-4 versions of Android. However, for older devices this period may be reduced by the smartphone manufacturer.
Is it possible to use WhatsApp on Android 6?
No, WhatsApp has officially stopped supporting Android versions 6.0 and below. The messenger requires at least Android 7.0 to work, but a newer version is recommended.
What to do if the application requires a new version of Android?
If the application requires a newer version of the OS, you will not be able to install it officially. Attempts to install modified versions (mods) carry a high risk of virus infection.
Is it safe to shop online on Android 8?
It's risky. Android 8 no longer receives regular security updates, making payment interception more likely. It is better to use a computer or a new phone for this.