Google has officially ended Google Play Services support for smartphones running Android 6.0 (Marshmallow), meaning affected devices will gradually lose access to new apps, updates, and several essential Google features.
According to international media reports, Google now requires devices to run at least Android 7.0 (Nougat) to receive Google Play Services support.
While phones running Android 6.0 will not stop working immediately, they will increasingly face compatibility issues as developers discontinue support for older Android versions.
The move primarily affects smartphones that cannot be upgraded beyond Android 6.0, an operating system first introduced in 2015.
Over time, users of these devices will be unable to download certain new apps from the Google Play Store, while existing applications may stop receiving updates or fail to function properly.
Google Play Services operates in the background and powers many core Android functions, including Google account sign-in, push notifications, location services, Google Maps integration, security verification, and data synchronization.
Although it is separate from the Google Play Store, many Android applications rely on Play Services to install, update, and operate correctly.
Users with Android 6.0 devices will still be able to perform basic tasks such as making phone calls, sending text messages, viewing photos, and using apps already installed on their phones.
However, the overall user experience is expected to deteriorate over time as more applications require newer versions of Android and updated Google Play Services.
The loss of Play Services support could also affect essential features such as Google account authentication, location-based services, and push notifications.
In addition, affected devices will no longer receive the latest security updates through Google Play Services, leaving them increasingly vulnerable to cybersecurity threats.
The latest change is part of Google’s broader effort to phase out support for outdated Android versions and encourage users to upgrade to newer devices that offer improved security, performance, and compatibility with modern applications.
Read also: Google release first look of Pixel 11 smartphone series
