More than 40% of Android smartphones worldwide are now exposed to heightened security risks, according to fresh data released by Google. The warning follows the company’s updated Android distribution figures, which show that a large share of users are running operating system versions that no longer receive critical security updates.
The latest data, compiled in December and released this week, reveals that Android 16 is installed on just 7.5% of devices globally. Android 15 accounts for 19.3%, Android 14 for 17.9%, and Android 13 for 13.9%. Together, these supported versions cover just under 58% of active Android phones. The remaining devices, which are more than 40%, are running Android 12 or earlier versions of the OS, which are no longer receiving important security patches from Google.
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This figure translates into more than one billion users who are potentially vulnerable to new malware and spyware assaults without a solution at the system level.
Earlier versions of Android no longer receive critical fixes
It has been confirmed by Google that Android 12 and earlier versions are no longer supported, which means they are no longer receiving any critical updates. This applies to updates to the OS only and not the applications installed.
In a statement, a Google spokesperson said that Play Protect continues to offer some protection even on older devices. “Google Play Protect, Android’s built-in malware and unwanted software protection, continues to support devices as far back as Android 7 with updated security signatures and real-time scanning,” the company said. However, Google also clarified that full protection depends on manufacturers continuing to support devices with system updates — something many no longer do.
Security experts advise that using application-level security alone is inadequate to defend against new-generation spyware, in part because zero-day exploits, such as those found with spyware, can compromise the operating system.
Samsung discontinues support for their most popular phones
These risks have been made even clearer by Samsung, which has now stopped security support for its Galaxy S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra flagships. As reported by PCMag and TechRadar, Samsung flagships, including S21, S21+, and S21 Ultra, are no longer entitled to Android version updates or security patches.
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In addition, Samsung has downgraded the update schedule for the Galaxy S22 series and the S21 FE from monthly to quarterly security updates, meaning fixes will now arrive only once every three months.
Experts say users whose phones cannot be updated to Android 13 or newer should strongly consider upgrading to a supported device. Security specialists note that a newer mid-range phone with active updates is safer than an older premium model that no longer receives patches.
