How to reach devices with Android 7.1.1 and lower versions?

Batch will transition to a new SSL certification authority effective September 29, 2025: Let’s Encrypt. This is a very popular and trusted authority. This move is a great step forward in terms of security and reliability for our customers.

It still has one consequence:

Android 7.1.1 (which was issued in 2016) and lower versions are no longer updated by Google. As a result of this choice to not maintain these old OS versions, Let’s Encrypt has not been made compatible with them, despite the fact that Let's Encrypt is very popular and trusted nowadays. As a consequence, Batch will no longer be able to communicate natively with the Android devices that are using Android 7.1.1 and lower versions.

Because these versions are almost 10 years old, the volume of app users using them is very low, and you might see almost no movement in your engagement strategies' performance. Still, a workaround exists if it's important for you to still engage these users. It is described below.

We give more details below about Batch's usage of Let's Encrypt and its consequences:

What is Let’s Encrypt?

Let's Encrypt is a modern, automated, and open certificate authority (CA). It issues SSL/TLS certificates — these certificates ensure a secure HTTPS connection.

Let's Encrypt relies on:

• Automation: Certificates are installed and renewed automatically every 90 days.

• Accessibility: It makes HTTPS easier to adopt, even for small sites.

• Transparency: Everything is open source and auditable, supported by the Internet Security Research Group (ISRG) foundation, with partners like Mozilla, Google, Cisco…

What are the benefits for Batch clients?

• Always secure connection: Let's Encrypt provides reliable HTTPS certificates that are automatically renewed, reducing the risk of outages or security errors.

• Fewer breakdowns: Automation prevents forgotten renewals.

• Compliance with modern standards: Let's Encrypt is a recognized authority, supported by major web players.

Do you (as a Batch client) have anything to do?

No, it's automatic. Nothing for you to do.

Are there any negative impacts for Batch clients?

There is one, on older Android devices. Android 7.1.1 and lower versions do not recognize Let's Encrypt certificates. This means Batch functionalities (notifications, APIs, etc.) will no longer work on these devices.

Why? Let's Encrypt uses a modern certificate authority (ISRG Root X1), not integrated into older Android systems, which are now obsolete and not updated by Google. As a reference, Android 7.1.1 was released in 2016.

Consequence: You will experience a slight decrease in terms of targetable users. This represents less than 0.08% of usage across all clients.

Workaround: A workaround exists. Developers can manually implement a solution by including the ISRG Root X1 certificate in their application's trust store. This is a client-side implementation that is not maintained by Batch. You can find more information and technical guidance on community forums like the Let's Encrypt Community Support page and Stack Overflow.

For any questions, our support can help you at [e-mail].