Google’s Pixel 4a was one of the best budget phones of 2020, offering a great camera, a compact design, and a smooth software experience. However, the phone has reached the end of its software support cycle, meaning it will no longer receive any security patches or feature updates from Google. This marks the end of an era for the Pixel 4a, which was the last non-5G phone in the Pixel lineup.
Software Support Timeline
According to Google’s support page, the Pixel 4a was expected to receive software updates until August 2023. However, the phone was excluded from Google’s September 2023 Android security update, suggesting that it was the final update for the device. The Pixel 4a also did not qualify for Google’s Android 14 program, which means it will not get the latest version of Android that is expected to launch later this year.
Comparison with Other Pixel Phones
The Pixel 4a’s software support timeline is shorter than some of its siblings in the Pixel family. The Pixel 4a 5G, which was launched alongside the Pixel 5 in 2020, will continue to receive software updates until November 2023. The Pixel 4a 5G is also eligible for Android 14, as it received the beta images for the software. The Pixel 5 and the Pixel 5a with 5G, which are the current flagship and mid-range phones from Google, will get software updates until October 2024 and August 2024 respectively.
Implications for Pixel 4a Users
The end of software support for the Pixel 4a means that users will not get any new features or security fixes from Google. This could expose them to potential vulnerabilities or bugs in the future. While the phone may still work perfectly well, users may want to consider upgrading to a newer device if they want to stay up to date with the latest Android features and security enhancements. Alternatively, users can also try custom ROMs or third-party software solutions that may extend the life of their device.
Conclusion
The Pixel 4a was a great phone for its price and performance, but it has reached the end of its software support from Google. Users who own a Pixel 4a will have to settle for Android 13 as their final OS version, while other Pixel phones will get Android 14 and beyond. The end of software support for the Pixel 4a marks the end of an era for the budget phone, which was the last non-5G phone in the Pixel lineup.
