Google Play Store Update to Impact 1 Billion Phones
- Abeera Marium Siddiqui
- April 3, 2025
- 5:44 pm
- 34
- Technology
Google is rolling out a new Google Play Store update that could impact millions of Android users. This update will disable key services like Google Wallet, banking apps, and more. The update is driven by changes to Google’s Play Integrity API and will impact devices running Android 12 or older.
What’s Changing with the Google Play Store Update?
The Google Play Store update aims to improve the security and privacy of Android apps. The Play Integrity API helps developers prevent fraud, unauthorized access, and bot activity. The new update will make this API faster, more secure, and focused on privacy. However, only devices running Android 13 or newer will benefit fully from these updates.
As a result, users with older devices will face challenges. Phones running Android 12 or older may lose access to essential services like Google Wallet and banking apps. These services rely on the Play Integrity API, which will no longer work on outdated devices. Millions of users worldwide will be affected by these changes, especially those who have not yet upgraded their phones.
Older Android Devices at Risk
The update will create a divide between supported and legacy devices. Developers will be able to limit app features for outdated phones. Users with devices running Android 12 or earlier may see reduced app functionality or lose access to some services.
The update will become mandatory within two months. Around 35% of Android phones still use Android 12 or earlier. This means nearly 1 billion devices worldwide will be affected by these changes.
Security Risks and Sideloading Concerns
Google has warned users about the risks of sideloading apps from unofficial sources. Research shows that Android malware is over 50 times more common in apps downloaded outside the Play Store. To address this, Google is improving Play Protect to detect and block harmful apps from all sources.
Time to Upgrade?
The Google Play Store update highlights the need for Android users to upgrade their devices. Around 500 million Android phones no longer receive updates and are already vulnerable to security risks. Another 500 million devices receive limited support and will likely face reduced functionality due to these changes.
If you’re still using a phone with an older Android version, these updates may cause issues with services like Google Wallet and banking apps. Upgrading to a supported device may soon be necessary to stay secure and connected in today’s digital world.
