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Google Ending Chrome Updates for older Android versions. Time to upgrade. The company has officially announced it will stop providing Chrome updates for devices running Android 8.0 (Oreo) and Android 9.0 (Pie) in the coming weeks. According to the company’s support page, Chrome version 138 will be the final update compatible with these older Android versions. Users will need to upgrade to at least Android 10 to receive Chrome version 139, which is set for release on August 5.
Android Oreo and Pie versions primarily run on devices released in the mid-to-late 2010s. Recent Android distribution data reveals that approximately 9.8% of active Android phones still operate on these older versions. Notable models affected include early Google Pixel phones up to the Pixel 3XL, Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, and the OnePlus 5 and 5T.
In contrast, Android 10 (Q), currently running on about 10.2% of Android phones, will continue to receive Chrome updates for the foreseeable future. Google emphasized that Chrome will remain functional on Android 8 and 9, though no further updates or security patches will be provided, potentially increasing vulnerability risks over time.
Google advises users of devices running these older Android versions to upgrade their systems to Android 10.0 or higher if feasible. Users can easily verify their Android version or check for updates by navigating to the device settings and selecting “About phone” or “System updates.”
With the recent rollout of Android 16, introducing new features like Material 3 Expressive, users are encouraged to consider upgrading to devices compatible with newer Android versions to ensure continued access to important Chrome updates and enhanced security.
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