Upcoming Android 14 May Limit Installation of Outdated Applications

Upcoming Android Version 14 May Restrict Old App Installations

In a move aimed at enhancing the security of the Android mobile operating system, Google is introducing stricter API requirements with the release of Android 14.

The new measures, discovered by tech publication 9to5Google in the Android 14 source code, are focused on apps that target older versions of Android to bypass access restrictions. If an app developer isn't writing their app to more recent source code than Android 6, Android will deny installation.

Android 6 is the baseline for the new API requirements because it was the first version where Google required apps to ask for access to sensitive data like contacts, location, and internal storage. With Android 14, apps targeted toward especially old versions of Android, starting with Android 6, will be blocked.

This change could potentially challenge Apple's argument that sideloading makes Android less secure than iOS. However, it's important to note that the new security measures will not be universally enforced. Device makers can make the block more lenient or disable it entirely. The base install on Pixel devices will have it fully enabled.

Google is encouraging users to download apps only from the Play Store to reduce the stigma of Android's riskiness, which is partly due to its openness and tinkerability. However, this could mean reduced freedom for users who prefer to install apps found on the web.

The plan is to block apps all the way through older versions of Android as Android 14 progresses. The changes in Android 14's API requirements are expected to be a boon for security but may be a bummer for Android diehards who prefer to fine-tune their smartphone experience through sideloading.

Android 15, the next major version of Android, also introduces controls for handling apps optimized for very old Android versions. These controls can be managed or disabled by device manufacturers. Specifically, Google Pixel devices like Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro XL with Android 15 QPR1 or higher support developer options related to these features.

In conclusion, Android 14's new API requirements aim to make the operating system more secure, particularly against malicious apps that exploit older versions. While this may bring increased security for many users, it may also limit the freedom of some Android enthusiasts who prefer to customise their devices.