Google ends Chrome security updates for millions of Android users

In a recent announcement, Google warned that starting August 5, security updates for the Chrome web browser will cease for an estimated 300 million Android devices that run on versions 8.0 and 9.0. This announcement has significant implications because a substantial part of the Android user base—around 9.8%—still operates on these outdated versions. According to estimates, about 4% of the global Android user base of 3.3 billion remains on Android 8, while another 5.8% utilize Android 9. This situation stems from a lack of timely updates provided by device manufacturers, which has left many users exposed to potential vulnerabilities as newer exploits are continuously discovered. Ellen T, a Chrome support manager, highlighted in a community post that the Chrome 139 release, anticipated on August 5, will require users to upgrade to Android 10.0 or later to continue receiving updates. Users are advised to transition to the supported Android version to maintain their devices' security. Although older versions of Chrome may still function on these legacy systems, using them poses considerable risks as recent security vulnerabilities become widely known and exploited. As time goes on, the likelihood of being targeted increases for these users until they either update their operating system or switch to alternative browser apps that still receive support. Furthermore, Google emphasized that doing nothing isn't a sustainable option; users must take proactive steps to protect their devices. Finally, users seeking guidance on how to check and update their Android version can follow Google's instructions to ensure continued security and functionality of their browsing experience.