Security updates for this version of the Android operating system will no longer be provided by Google. Starting with the release of April 2025, there will be an end to Google’s support. This may be specific to these specific Android versions, like Android 12.

That's in tune with Google’s usual practice of supporting an Android version for around three to three and a half years. It's doing to previous versions like Android 11. 

Implications for Users

These devices will not only experience an exponential growth in vulnerabilities and threats as well as malware. However, it also cannot have key updates that would prevent users from facing new vulnerabilities and new threats. 

Gradually, over time, these security breaches and compromised personal information begin to increase in risk of happening. Having Android 12/12L devices is both good and bad. Therefore, users need to have an option to upgrade if the security of their devices is a problem.

Impact on Manufacturers

They must decide to dedicate resources solely to keep their old version of the software. For these products, it can be too costly and complex for many smaller manufacturers to backport security fixes.

This puts the customers of these products at risk of security hacks. However, it is a reminder that makers must provide timely operating system upgrades for their products. In this way, their products will work and be secure.

Encouraging a More Secure Ecosystem

Google’s strategic push to protect its Android ecosystem has been this. The newer version in Android are iteratively improving every year. 

The newer versions often increase security, architecture, and privacy-focused features. They are not going to roll back to any older version. The result of that is to bring you a more robust and safer experience for the majority of Android users.

Taking Proactive Steps for Security

Take actions to prevent yourself if your smartphone or tablet is still running on Android 12 or 12L. The first thing you should do to solve the problem of no Google Play Services is to check if there is any available system update. 

While Google does not provide longer support, in some cases, some manufacturers may still offer updates for some time. Secondly, if you are a technically advanced user, you can try to seek apps for custom ROMs of newer Android versions. However, it is not a good idea as it’s highly unstable and full of risks. You need to do a lot of research and understand the flashing process as well. 

The most reliable way to get long-term security is to secure new hardware. The users should buy a device that will run a newer and more actively supported version of Android.

Conclusion

It’s a part of the Android ecosystem that needs to constantly be updated and secure. So the end of Android 12 and 12L security updates isn’t necessarily positive news for users. 

This shows the life cycle of software support, which further emphasizes why it had to be continued. This seems to be because newer capabilities and security upgrades include more. 

With this end-of-life announcement, users would be able to take the correct actions. It may have a safer, more consistent mobile experience on their supported version of the Android device.

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