Android, despite being almost two decades old, still faces a major issue. While Android 16 is available on the latest Google Pixel phones and other top devices, the rollout to older phones is slow. Currently, only 7.5% of Android devices run Android 16, a significant improvement from the 4.5% in April 2025. Comparatively, iOS 26 is installed on close to 30% of supported iPhones. The slow adoption of new Android versions has a significant impact on users. Android 17 is on the horizon, but the lack of excitement is evident. Excitement for new Android versions is limited, especially for users of non-Google devices. Software updates focus more on bug fixes and security rather than new features, with many exclusive features limited to Pixel phones. The issue of unsupported phones is a major concern. The fragmentation of Android's user base is evident, with over 10% of devices running older versions. Using unsupported phones poses security risks, as they lack necessary security patches. It's crucial to ensure your phone is supported to safeguard your data. While Google works on Android 17, older phone owners may be left without updates. Ensuring a safe and functional phone is paramount, even if it means not having the latest version of Android. Expect a lukewarm reception for Android 17, especially among users still waiting for Android 16.
