To reduce the chance of malware getting onto your device, Android 14 may start completely blocking the installation of apps designed for older versions of Android.
For years, Google Play’s policies have ensured that Android developers can update their apps to use the latest features and security measures of the Android platform. This month, the rules were updated to now require added apps to target at least Android 12.
Previously, the minimum API requirements only applied to apps destined for the Google Play Store. If a developer wanted to build an app for an older version of the OS, they could ask their users to download the APK file manually. Likewise, if an Android app hasn’t been updated since the guidelines changed, the Play Store continued to provide the app to those who already had it installed before.
According to newly released code, Android 14 tightens API requirements by completely blocking the installation of outdated apps. This change will block users from downloading certain APK files, and also prevent installation from third-party stores – the app simply won’t install.
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Initially, Android 14 devices will only block apps designed for very old versions of Android. However, it is planned to raise the threshold to Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) in the future, gradually increasing the version number. However, it’s likely that each device manufacturer will decide what, if any, threshold for legacy apps will apply to a device.
Malware can specifically target a lower SDK version to avoid the limitations of later API versions. By blocking outdated apps, Google intends to curb the spread of such apps on Android.
However, if for some reason you need to install a legacy app, it will still be possible via the command line using the new custom flag. Given the extra steps involved, it’s unlikely that someone would install malware unintentionally.
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Source: 9to5google
