a Google It will limit searches and downloads of old apps on Play Store. The change in store policies, announced by the company on Wednesday (6), aims to prevent users from downloading older and possibly more vulnerable software. To provide a safer online store experience, Google As of November 1, applications submitted to the Play Store will require that you indicate an API level for at least two years before the latest release of Android.
Every developed application has an API level, which is an element that informs how to run the application in each version of Android. a Android 12, for example, has API level 31; a Android 11, level 30. In other words, the newer the software, the higher the level. Therefore, the new policy of Google which requires apps to target their API “within two years from the major release of Android Latest” will force app developers to frequently update apps with the latest privacy and security features.
Google Play Store will restrict searches and limit downloads of available apps that do not support newer versions of Android – Photo: Rodrigo Fernandes/TechTudo
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Users with newer or newer devices Android Today we expect to take full advantage of the privacy and security protections that an operating system has to offer. Extending our API requirements at the target level will protect users from installing legacy applications that may not have these protections. ” GoogleKrish Vitaldevera, in a post on the company’s blog.
It should be noted that the new policy will only apply if the smartphone is running a version Android Newer than the application API level. In this way, users of older versions of Android It will be able to install applications developed for the respective OS version. In addition, it will be possible to find and reinstall any old application previously downloaded from the Play Store by the user.
Image shows API-level hashing in a two-year window for app updates – Image: Post / Google
a Google Similar requirements are already made for downloading applications. Currently, for the app to be published on the Play Store, the software needs to target the API level up to one year from the release of the last major version of the app. Android. Therefore, the new requirement is merely a reinforcement of security measures.
according to GoogleMost Play Store apps are already following the new standards. Despite this, the company recommended developers to review the technical guide for migrating the application and the help center article on the subject. The company also said it is possible to request a six-month extension if the app is not updated by November 1.
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Edward Langley is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current affairs and developing stories. His work highlights issues, trends and events that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance and accessible journalism.