In a major shake-up for the Android ecosystem, Google Play Store’s latest update is set to affect more than 1 billion Android devices globally. The update, focused on enhancing security and compliance, will disable Google Wallet and several major banking apps on older Android devices, raising significant concerns among users, developers, and financial institutions alike.
This article will break down the update, the devices impacted, the reasoning behind it, and how users and businesses can prepare.
Why Is Google Making This Update?
Security and Compliance at the Core
Google’s official statement indicates that this update is part of its continuous efforts to maintain the highest standards in security, privacy, and user protection. Older Android devices, especially those running outdated versions (Android 7.0 Nougat and below), have become increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats.
To counter this, the Play Store will soon stop supporting apps that require strong encryption, secure communication protocols (like TLS 1.2 or higher), and advanced device integrity checks on these legacy devices.
Which Devices Will Be Affected?
Targeting Legacy Android Versions
According to Google, the update will primarily affect phones running:
- Android 7.0 Nougat and below
- Devices that have not received Google Play system updates in over 2 years
- Rooted or custom ROM-enabled phones lacking verified boot and Google Play Protect certifications
This means older smartphones from popular brands like Samsung, LG, Huawei, and Xiaomi, particularly models launched before 2017, may no longer support critical financial apps.
Apps That Will Be Disabled
Google Wallet and Banking Apps at the Top of the List
One of the most concerning impacts of the update is the disabling of Google Wallet on affected devices. Google Wallet is widely used for contactless payments, peer-to-peer money transfers, and storing digital IDs.
Additionally, many banking and fintech apps such as:
- PayPal
- Venmo
- Bank of America
- Wells Fargo
- CitiBank
- CashApp
…may stop functioning on unsupported phones. These apps rely on high-level security features that are not available or no longer reliable on older Android systems.
How Will This Impact Users?
A Wake-Up Call for Millions of Android Users
For many users, especially in developing countries, this update could disrupt daily financial activities. Android dominates the global mobile OS market, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, where low-cost, older phones are still widely used.
If users are unable to upgrade their hardware, they might:
- Lose access to digital payments
- Be unable to use online banking apps
- Face difficulties with app logins or transactions
- Experience more frequent app crashes
This not only affects convenience but could have a broader economic impact in areas relying heavily on mobile money.
How Will Developers Be Affected?
Rewriting Code for Compatibility
Developers of finance-related apps will now need to:
- Enforce strict API level requirements
- Implement updated security protocols
- Ensure device integrity checks for continued app distribution on Play Store
This means more development hours, testing cycles, and possibly dropping support for millions of users still on older Android versions.
Google’s Push for Digital Safety
What Is Play Protect and Why Does It Matter?
Google Play Protect is a built-in malware protection system for Android. Devices not using Play Protect-certified ROMs will be classified as “unsafe” under the new guidelines. This aligns with Google’s broader commitment to a “secure-by-default” mobile ecosystem.
Disabling services like Google Wallet on unsafe or outdated devices is part of Google’s mission to:
- Eliminate unverified transactions
- Prevent malware-based financial fraud
- Encourage users to adopt newer and safer devices
What Can Users Do?
Steps to Stay Ahead of the Update
If you’re a user worried about losing access to your favorite financial apps, here are some immediate actions you can take:
1. Check Your Android Version
Go to Settings > About Phone and check your Android version. If you’re using Android 7.0 or lower, your device is at risk.
2. Update If Possible
Some manufacturers offer unofficial updates or extended support. Check if your device can be upgraded to Android 8.0 or above.
3. Back Up and Replace
If updating isn’t an option, it might be time to back up your data and invest in a newer Android device.
4. Enable Google Play Protect
Make sure Google Play Protect is turned on in your Play Store settings to ensure your device is certified and secure.
The Bigger Picture: A Nudge Toward Digital Progress
Encouraging Device Modernization
While this update may seem harsh, it’s a strategic move by Google to gradually phase out insecure technology and nudge both users and developers toward better, faster, and more secure digital solutions.
Some experts compare it to how Microsoft ended support for Windows XP — painful at first, but critical for long-term digital health.
Potential Backlash and Concerns
Digital Inequality May Widen
Tech analysts and digital rights advocates are raising concerns about:
- Digital exclusion of low-income populations
- Environmental impact of mass phone replacements
- The growing digital divide between modern and legacy users
Google has yet to announce any support or subsidy programs to help low-income users transition, which could create challenges in financially sensitive regions.
Conclusion
The Google Play Store update that will disable Google Wallet and several banking apps on over 1 billion Android phones is both a significant tech milestone and a controversial step. While it aims to improve security and app integrity, it also places millions of users in a difficult position.
As technology evolves, keeping up with the latest updates, using certified devices, and staying informed is essential to ensure you’re not left behind in the rapidly advancing world of mobile technology.
Final Thoughts: Prepare, Don’t Panic
This update is a clear reminder that staying on outdated technology can come with real-world consequences. If you’re a user, take steps to safeguard your access. If you’re a developer or financial institution, now’s the time to review your app compatibility strategy and ensure you’re ready for what’s coming.
