As much as I love using Android, there's no denying that there's always a risk of malware. Android 14 can't stop that process, but it may reduce that risk a bit.

According to 9to5Google (opens in new tab), Android 14 will begin blocking the installation of apps designed for "older" versions of Android. This is a policy already in place at Google Play and may soon affect sideloading, although newly listed apps should target Android 12 and above.

Newly revealed code changes (opens in new tab) suggest that Android 14 will have stricter API requirements than before. It stops sideloading old APK files and also blocks installation from the app store. Because this is not Apple and users have access to more than just Google Play.

It is worth noting that the blocking of installations may not be as strict as Google Play itself. It is believed that the block will initially apply to "particularly older Android versions" and gradually increase to include Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) - which was first released in 2015.

Why Android 6? Because it was the first version of Android to require users to check permissions on apps, rather than giving apps free reign. This should make it a little harder for hackers and other threat actors to access sensitive areas of your phone. Not impossible, but more difficult, and in the process make your device a little more secure.

However, 9to5Google notes that device manufacturers may still be able to determine their own thresholds for older apps, or even whether to enable this feature. Therefore, only Google Pixels will likely be subject to the severe limitations of Android 6.

A new command shell flag is also said to be available, allowing users to install older applications if they feel the need. However, the average user will not bother with it, as it requires extra steps and knowledge. Still, if they must, they will not be completely deprived of ludicrously old applications.

While the problem of malware in cell phones will never completely go away, making the Android ecosystem more secure can only be a good thing. Especially if it makes it more difficult to install potentially dangerous software without realizing it.