Google ensures regular updates to the Android ecosystem through Google Play Services, the Google Play Store, and at a system level to enhance and secure devices. These updates are separate from the usual over-the-air updates and are designed to bring meaningful improvements without the need for a full system update or the delays from carriers and manufacturers.
According to Google’s System Release Notes pages, these updates can occur weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly for a range of devices including phones, tablets, Android TV, Google TV, Android Auto-enabled devices, Wear OS devices, and Chrome OS devices. Essentially, if you own a device powered by Google’s Android software, you will receive these updates regularly.
Google Play Services plays a crucial role in the background of your device, offering new features and fixes in each update. For example, the latest update includes a new entry point for Family Link, enhancements to Device Connections, Quick Share transfer features, and new developer tools.
While these updates may go unnoticed by users, they are essential for improving the functionality and security of devices. Google also releases updates for Google Play Store, Google Wallet, and other services behind-the-scenes. It’s like secret Android updates that help keep your device running smoothly.
Stay tuned for further updates from Google as they continue to enhance the Android ecosystem.
February 2025
Google Play services v25.04 (2025-02-03)
Account Management
- [Phone] The new entry point for Family Link in Google Settings simplifies family group management.
Developer Services
- [Auto] New features for developers to support Machine Learning & AI processes.
- Device Connectivity
- [Auto, Phone, TV, Wear] Bug fixes for Device Connections.
- [Phone] Quick Share transfers now continue over Wi-Fi or mobile data even if the direct connection is lost.
- [Phone] New features for developers to support Utilities processes.
Google Play Store v44.8 (2025-02-03)
- [Phone] UI updates for Play Games profile.
- [Phone] Tablet quality version 3 improves app evaluation on tablets and ChromeOS devices.