Google Calendar and Chrome End Support for Older Android Versions

Highlights

• Google Calendar to cease on Android Nougat 7.1 and below.
• AssembleDebug uncovers ‘UnsupportedOperatingSystem__enabled’ flag in Google Calendar update.
• Google focuses on security, urges upgrade to Android Oreo 8.0.
• Similar support drop for Chrome on Nougat and older Androids.

Millions rely on Google Calendar for organizing their schedules, setting reminders, and planning events. But, users with older Android devices should be prepared for a change.

Specifically, if your device operates on Android Nougat 7.1 or earlier, you will soon be unable to use Google Calendar.

This shift was first spotted by AssembleDebug of TheSpAndroid, who noticed a new feature in the latest Google Calendar update (version 2023.46.0-581792699-release).

A flag titled “UnsupportedOperatingSystem__enabled” has been added. This feature triggers a notification advising users with outdated Android systems to upgrade to Android Oreo (8.0) or later to continue accessing Google Calendar.

The motivation behind discontinuing support for older Android versions mainly revolves around security risks.

Earlier Android versions are more susceptible to security breaches and data loss. To enhance user security, Google is nudging its users towards adopting the latest Android versions, which come with enhanced features and better security protocols.

This move by Google isn’t isolated to Google Calendar. Earlier in the month, Google announced a similar update for Chrome on both desktop and Android platforms.

Starting with Chrome version 119 on Android, the browser will no longer receive support for devices running on Nougat or older versions.

From Chrome 120 onwards, users will need a newer version of Android to continue using Chrome.

FAQs

Q: Which Android versions will no longer support Google Calendar?

A: Google Calendar will stop functioning on devices running Android Nougat 7.1 or earlier. Users of these older versions need to upgrade their operating system to continue using the app.

Q: How was the Google Calendar change discovered?

A: The change in Google Calendar’s support was first identified by AssembleDebug from TheSpAndroid. They found a new flag named ‘UnsupportedOperatingSystem__enabled’ in the app’s latest version, signaling the end of support for older Android versions.

Q: Why is Google ending support for older Android versions?

A: Google’s decision to end support for older Android versions is primarily driven by security concerns. Older operating systems are more prone to security vulnerabilities, and updating to newer versions like Android Oreo 8.0 ensures better protection and features.