Google will start disabling Google Messages to work on “non-certified” Android devices March 31st. This change shouldn’t affect most of you, but it does raise the question: what exactly is it? is an “uncertified” Android device and how to make sure you don’t use any?
What does it mean when an Android device is “not certified”
Uncertified devices have not passed the Google Android compatibility test to ensure that they meet Google’s quality and safety standards. Some newer Android devices are temporarily uncertified when they are first released, but are then certified once the process is complete. In other cases, a non-certified device may mean that the manufacturer did not submit the device for Google certification. or what did not happen.
Seconds Google Help Page, using an unverified Android device has several risks and drawbacks:
- Devices that do not have Play Protect certification may be safe.
- Devices that are not Play Protect certified may not receive system updates or Android applications.
- Google apps on devices that are not Play Protect certified are unlicensed and may not be actual Google apps.
- Applications and features on devices that do not have Play Protect certification may work properly.
- Data on devices that do not have Play Protect certification may not be backed up securely.
These security risks are the reason why Google prohibits Google Messages on non-certified phones. Without the Play Sby breaking verification, Google cannot guarantee that the end-to-end encryption of the application is set up correctly, which could jeopardize your personal messages and data.
G / O Media may receive a commission
That said, no all Uncertified Android phones are dangerous. In some cases, rooting your phone or making other system-level modifications will revoke the certification of a device. Many users can fix it and if not, they usually make these changes knowing the risks. Luckily, you can undo a root and do it againstores the certification status of the device.
How to check if your phone is certified
It is unlikely that a normal person would inadvertently use an uncertified Android device, especially in the US, but it is not impossible. Some non-certified devices come from well-known brands that Google no longer supports. For example, newer Huawei devices are not certified and cannot currently apply for certification in the US
You can confirm that your Android phone is certified by Google Play Store settings.
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Touch the three-lined button at the top-left corner of the screen.
- Select “Settings” from the sidebar.
- Scroll down to “About” section. Under “Device Certification” he won’t say either “Certificate” or “Not certified”.
If your device is certified, you can continue to use Google Messages without any problems. If not, you’ll need to find a new messaging app or device (or unroot it). However, if you believe that the device is not “uncertified” incorrectly, make sure the phone is connected Google (long) list of compatible Android devices. Contact Google and the device manufacturer if there are any discrepancies.