One issue often cited with Android is its security, and while that flaw may not be totally based in reality, it’s still a perception that a lot of consumers have.
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One of the problems with the Android is the fragmented ecosystem – not only are there several versions of the mobile operating system in devices on the market, wireless carriers take a scattershot approach to issuing updates to subscribers.
Samsung announced in a blog post it will frequently issue fixes from now on. The move comes in the wake of the discovery of the “Stagefright” bug, a security vulnerability in Android’s multimedia text messaging.
It can infect an Android handset via single MMS message that doesn’t have to be opened.
These are only two purveyors of Android devices, but they’re the most important ones. Stagefright has reportedly infected 95 percent of android devices. But because each manufacturer’s version of Android is slightly different, most devices don’t get new software updates as soon as they’re available. Security firms have been saying that for years, of course, but it’s great news that Google and their OEM partners have decided that it’s time to do something about the situation.
‘These security updates will take place regularly about once per month.
Google, Samsung and LG will start to issue monthly security patches for Android devices, taking a cue from the PC industry after critical vulnerabilities put hundreds of millions of smartphone users at risk. Google is delivering the security update to the Nexus 4, Nexus 5, and Nexus 6 smartphones, the Nexus 7, Nexus 9, and Nexus 10 tablets, and the Nexus Player media device.
“People have been looking for clear communication about Android from a security standpoint”, Ludwig said.
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Google has provided manufacturers with monthly notices about security fixes for the last three years, Ludwig wrote. “We believe these important steps will demonstrate to LG customers that security is our highest priority”. All of which means getting security patches out to consumers can be a long and complicated process. Users can avail this form the Google Developers page, as well. All projects going forward contain the required fix.’.
