Google has just announced that Chrome version 42 will be the last version compatible with devices running Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich. The company explains that developing Chrome with new features for older versions of Android is becoming increasingly difficult, so the browser’s 42nd release will be the last version for devices running that version. Google states that over the past year, the company has seen the number of Chrome users running ICS drop a massive 30%, so from a company standpoint, this move makes sense. Of course, devices running this version of Android will still be able to use Chrome, just not update the app any further.
Odds are, many users that bought an ICS device have since upgraded to a new smartphone, so this likely won’t affect too many users. In fact, according to the latest Android distribution numbers that were just posted yesterday, Ice Cream Sandwich is running on a total of 5.9% of all current Android devices. This is a .5% decrease from last month, and a .3% decrease from the month prior. Take a look at the screenshot below for more information on the most recent Android distribution numbers.
Are you using an Android device running Ice Cream Sandwich? Will Google’s move affect you in any way? Let us know your opinions in the comments.
