Gingerbread, 2.3.4

[pawprints86]

Can anyone tell me how much longer this OS version will continue to be supported? I am considering getting a device with this version, and I want to know if I will be in for outdated/unsupported apps happening all the time, much like my first version ipod touch that i currently have where I am no longer able to download anything new at all.

if someone could let me know that would be great, thanks!

 

[Golfdriver97]

Can anyone tell me how much longer this OS version will continue to be supported? I am considering getting a device with this version, and I want to know if I will be in for outdated/unsupported apps happening all the time, much like my first version ipod touch that i currently have where I am no longer able to download anything new at all.

if someone could let me know that would be great, thanks!

Apps are backward compatible. Say, and app that is right now being configured to run 4.2 can potentially run on anything as low as 1.5. But the developer has to choose that. They can choose to have it run as low as 4.0, or even be exclusive to only 4.2. (I know because I am currently developing my own app) Some apps can't be run on 2.3, like Chrome, Play Sound Search, etc. I can also see that 2.3 will probably see less and less support in the future, especially as people with devices that are unsupported are upgrading to newer ones, with the OS at 4.0.3 or higher.

I have two counter questions: First, why are you opposed to leaving 2.3? And second, what device are you getting that still runs 2.3? As far as I was aware, most new devices are 4.0 or better.

 

[pawprints86]

I have two counter questions: First, why are you opposed to leaving 2.3? And second, what device are you getting that still runs 2.3? As far as I was aware, most new devices are 4.0 or better.

Well, im not opposed to leaving it at all. In fact im looking to enter the android world. The device I am looking to get is the "Samsung Galaxy Ace Q" in Canad where I live, or in the USA it is the "Samsung Galaxy Appeal" (both are the same device). So, its not a new device per say, but it is new to me. I really like the idea of being able to enter the touch world while still having a physical keyboard to text with. Right now I have the Samsung Evergreen. So, the keyboard on this one is the exact same, but i would be upgrading the interface from a feature phone with no wifi, to having wifi and available apps. It is an affordable phone here ($79) I just dont know if its so affordable because it will soon be outdated?

 

[Golfdriver97]

Well, im not opposed to leaving it at all. In fact im looking to enter the android world. The device I am looking to get is the "Samsung Galaxy Ace Q" in Canad where I live, or in the USA it is the "Samsung Galaxy Appeal" (both are the same device). So, its not a new device per say, but it is new to me. I really like the idea of being able to enter the touch world while still having a physical keyboard to text with. Right now I have the Samsung Evergreen. So, the keyboard on this one is the exact same, but i would be upgrading the interface from a feature phone with no wifi, to having wifi and available apps. It is an affordable phone here ($79) I just dont know if its so affordable because it will soon be outdated?

Ok. I don't think in your case the situation of Android 2.3.x becoming obsolete is a real obstacle then. Like I said, most apps can be operated on 2.3, so it shouldn't be a big deal. My only question now is what about Play? How long will you be able to view apps in Play and still get updates for them? I would say if you have another option that would get you a device that is more current than do that instead. Have you looked at the Marketplace here to see if anyone is selling a device? Or, better yet, do you have a friend who has, say a Galaxy S3 or HTC device but want either the S4 or the One? If so, offer to buy their device from them say for $100. Yes a little more than you stated, but it is a newer device that will still get some support, and the friend you buy from has $100 to put toward the new one. You both win.

 

[pawprints86]

True, but none of the newer devices possess a hardware keyboard, which i am kind of looking forward to. I doubt any manufacturers are in the process of making any now as everyone seems to love the touch phones. seems all carriers are going all touch, except one basic clamshell for... well, older people.

If there are any devices in the works with a physical keyboard i would LOVE to hear about them. But the only thing ive seen is an iphone case with a bluetooth keyboard... which isnt exactly the same. not for me at least. (and WAY more expensive)

What is google play? lol is that the android version of hte app store on apple?

 

[pawprints86]

still looking at the same phone but now the offering is limited! I have been saving up some money to get it, but now im not sure if i will be able to. It was a Telus prepaid and i got scared when Telus no longer offred it on their website. Now future shop and best buy still carry it... hopefully for a while!

 

[AZBoy28]

You're lucky that you're buying an Android phone. Most apps are still compatible with 2.3 but on Apple if you aren't on the latest OS you're going to struggle. I find that I have more trouble getting apps for my phone because of the ARMv6 processor. Go for it!