Why Android 7.1.1 and lower versions cannot be reached?

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

It has still one consequence: Android 7.1.1 and lower versions were not updated for a very long time by Google. They decided to not make these older versions compatible with Let’s Encrypt. As a consequence, Batch will no longer be able to communicate 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.

We give more details 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 that on these devices, Batch functionalities (notifications, APIs, etc.) will no longer work. 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. This change affects only very old Android devices, dating back before 2016.

Consequence: You will experience a slight decrease in your targetable users. This represents less than 0.010% of usage across all clients.

Note: old versions of tools (proxies, firewalls, emulators, etc.) may not support Let's Encrypt, but the risk is very low because Let's Encrypt is very widely recognized.

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