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| Google Officially Ends Chrome Support for Android 8.0 and 9.0 — Millions of Users Urged to Upgrade for Safety and Performance. |
Google has officially announced that Chrome browser will no longer support Android 8.0 Oreo and Android 9.0 Pie, marking the end of the road for millions of users still on older Android operating systems. Starting from Chrome version 139, which is scheduled for release on August 5, 2025, the minimum system requirement will be Android 10 or later.
What Does This Mean for Android 8 and 9 Users?
If you're still using a device running Android 8 or 9, Chrome version 138 will be the last version available to you. You can keep using it, but you won't receive any new updates, including crucial security patches or feature improvements. This puts your data and device at greater risk over time.
Once Chrome 139 rolls out, users with outdated Android versions will no longer be able to update or reinstall the app from the Play Store.
Why Is Google Ending Support?
Android 8 and 9 were launched in 2017 and 2018, respectively, and they’ve both stopped receiving official security updates from Google as of 2021 and 2022. These versions are now considered obsolete.
According to StatCounter data from April 2024, Android 8 and 9 still hold a combined market share of approximately 7.5% in the United States, which translates to millions of active users globally, considering Android’s worldwide installation base of over 3.3 billion devices.
What Should You Do if You’re Affected?
If you're still on Android 8 or 9, here are your best options:
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Check if your device can be updated to Android 10 or higher via official system updates.
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If no updates are available, consider switching to a browser that still supports older Android versions (though this is not a secure long-term solution).
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For maximum security, consider upgrading to a newer device that runs a supported version of Android.
Why Chrome Updates Matter
Chrome isn’t just a web browser — it’s one of the most important apps on any smartphone. Every update brings:
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Critical security patches that protect against viruses, phishing, and data theft.
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New features that improve user experience and convenience, like password autofill and AI integrations.
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Performance improvements that make browsing faster, smoother, and more battery-efficient.
Using an outdated version of Chrome increases your risk of cyberattacks and may limit access to newer web technologies.
Upgrade Now to Stay Safe and Secure
Google's decision to drop Chrome support for Android 8.0 and 9.0 is a necessary step to improve app performance and security for the majority of users. If you're still using these outdated systems, the best move is to upgrade your operating system or invest in a modern smartphone. Staying updated isn’t just about performance — it's about protecting your personal data.
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