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Google Chrome Updates to Stop on August 5 for 300 Million Android Users
In a shocking move, Google has announced that it will stop updating the Chrome web browser for approximately 300 million Android users starting August 5. This drastic change affects devices running Android 8 and 9, which account for an estimated 4% and 5.8%, respectively, of the total Android user base.
According to the latest estimates, this significant number amounts to over 300 million devices that will no longer benefit from security updates for Google Chrome. Ellen T, a Chrome support manager at Google, confirmed in a recent posting on the Google Chrome community forum that “Chrome 138 is the last version of Chrome that will support Android 8.0 and Android 9.0.”
As a result of this change, users are strongly advised to update their device’s operating system to Android 10 or later to continue receiving future Chrome releases. This update requires devices to be running the latest security updates to ensure continued access to Google Chrome.
The company has provided step-by-step instructions for users to check and update their version of Android:
1. Open your device’s Settings app.
2. Tap About phone or About tablet and then Android version.
3. Find your “Android version,” “Android security update,” and “Build number.”
4. To check for the latest Android operating system updates for your device:
* Open your device’s Settings app.
* Tap System and then Software update.
* Follow the on-screen instructions.
It is essential to note that older versions of the Google Chrome web browser will continue to work seamlessly on older Android smartphones and tablets, but this comes with a significant caveat: they will be vulnerable to security attacks. The threat level for users who have not updated their device’s operating system or switched to a different browser app will increase as time passes and exploits become more widespread.
In conclusion, it is crucial that users take action and do not choose to “do nothing.”
Source: www.forbes.com
