According to the latest Google statistics, a staggering 42.1% of active smartphones run software that is no longer supported, making them easy targets for hackers, spyware, and financial fraud.
The situation is more than alarming: only 58% of users enjoy the protection of modern versions of the operating system (Android 13 and above). While the most current version, Android 16, barely makes it with a market share of 7.5%, millions of people remain “hostage” to outdated platforms like Android 12 and older, for which Google has officially stopped issuing patches. This means that even if a new vulnerability is discovered in the system, it will never be patched for these devices.
Google is trying to calm the situation by emphasizing that the built-in antivirus Google Play Protect still watches over older versions (up to Android 7), scanning applications in real time. But cybersecurity experts are adamant - Play Protect is only a thin line of defense. When the operating system kernel is “hacked” and is not updated, the responsibility for security falls entirely on hardware manufacturers, who are often in a hurry to send old models to history.
A striking example of this trend is the latest decision by the technology giant Samsung. The South Korean company has officially removed the popular Galaxy S21 series (including the Plus and Ultra versions) from its support list. These recent flagships will no longer receive either monthly or quarterly updates. Meanwhile, Galaxy S22 and S21 FE owners should also keep one thing in mind, as their devices are now switching to a less frequent update schedule.
This sounds like a verdict for our favorite gadgets, right? The truth is harsh: if your phone doesn't support at least Android 13, you're practically walking on thin ice. Experts advise - instead of risking your personal data and bank accounts with an old premium model without support, it's better to bet on a new mid-range smartphone. Security today is not a luxury, but mandatory hygiene in the digital world.