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Android users are being warned about a very big change that Google is helpless to support them with and this notice clears that up.
Android malware attacks are scary but Google is issuing its own concerns
More than million of Android users have been warned about possible malware attacks that can be targeted at their devices. Google has been quoted saying this by Forbes in its report, where it says Google has referred to a large-scale risk that poses millions of Android devices to possible exploit and data theft.
The company regularly updates its Android distribution charts, keeping us informed about how the new versions are faring and how many phones are getting the latest versions. But it seems Google continues to have the age-old problem of millions still running on outdated versions, which leaves them vulnerable to attacks.
Android 12 Still Persists
Google’s ongoing focus is on Android 13 and later versions which currently occupies around 58 percent of the total device user base across the globe. But this also means that around 40 percent of Android users are extremely vulnerable to malware and cyber attacks as their devices are not updated to the latest patches and they will not get anymore from the company.
It is quite staggering to see people still using phones with 4 years old Android versions but also shows you the difference between Apple and Google’s approach towards updates for its older devices.
The iPhone maker had recently warned users about some issues, for which it even issued an update for a 13-year-old iPhone 5 model. On the other hand, you have Google suggesting those with an Android 12 device or even 13 version should seriously consider upgrading, which means you have to spend extra on a new phone.
Android Phones Not Safe: What To Do?
Having around 40 million devices unsafe is not ideal and Google should do more than just warn people about it and ask them to upgrade. But to be fair, the company mentions that using an unsafe high-end Android phone could be a lot riskier than a mid-range phone which will get more updates.
Could Google revise its overall update strategy and include more devices to the roster, absolutely but the nature of Android in the market means it doesn’t have complete control like Apple (except for the Pixels), which allows the Android distribution to be longer and widespread.
Buying a phone with Android 13 doesn’t make sense in 2026, especially with the Android 17 version on its way in the next few months from the company.
Delhi, India, India
February 09, 2026, 08:15 IST
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