Buzz
At the recent Google I/O event, amidst unveiling new features and ecosystem changes, security concerns were not overlooked. Google highlighted the significance of security patch updates specifically for Android, emphasizing substantial improvements in safety compared to previous years.
Google's Director of Android Security, Eugene Liderman, stated that in the first quarter of 2021, 95% of Android devices received monthly security updates within 90 days. This signifies a significant effort by Google with Project Mainline. However, the remaining 5% still represents a considerable portion in the Android world. Notably, Samsung, the world's largest Android manufacturer, has been regularly updating security patches for its Galaxy phones, sometimes even ahead of Pixel devices. Additionally, they have pledged security updates for all Galaxy devices for up to 4 years, setting a trend for other OEMs to follow, which ultimately benefits users.
Liderman also emphasizes the importance of the Google Play Project, a module within the Google Play Store aimed at detecting fake, spyware, or high-security risk apps. In 2020, Google blocked over 50,000 malicious apps uploaded to the Play Store. Additionally, apps violating company policies were also blocked, totaling up to a potential of 1 million apps.Privacy rights have also become a priority for Google recently. Google will soon require programmers and developers to publicly disclose the data they will collect from users and allow users to choose their privacy preferences when using apps. This primarily aims to empower users to make informed choices about app usage. With Android 12 approaching, Google will gradually implement these plans.According to Android Central.
