Google Play Services APK Android 44 — What it is, how to choose the right APK, and safe installation
Google Play Services is a core system component on Android that delivers background services and APIs used by almost every app: authentication, Google APIs (Maps, Location, Drive), push notifications (Firebase Cloud Messaging), security updates, and more. When people search for “Google Play Services APK Android 44,” they’re usually looking for a specific APK build that matches their device’s Android version or architecture (for example, Android 4.4/KitKat vs. Android API level 44 in custom builds, or a Play Services version whose filename includes “44”).
Below is a concise, user-friendly blog post you can publish. It explains what the APK is, how to identify the correct variant, safety and compatibility considerations, and step-by-step installation guidance.
Warning: Do not download APKs from pop-up ads or "speed booster" websites. We recommend trusted mirrors like APKMirror (founded by Android Police).
The search for "google play services apk android 44" is a quest to keep classic smartphones functional in a modern app ecosystem. The good news is that it is possible. By downloading version 20.45.56 from a trusted mirror and matching the correct DPI variant, you can restore Google functionality to your KitKat device.
However, be prepared for limitations. You are running a 2021 software patch on a 2013 operating system. While you can still use Maps, Gmail, and the Play Store today, the window is closing rapidly. If you truly love your Android 4.4 device, consider it a media player or ebook reader rather than a daily driver.
To recap:
If you follow this guide, your Android 4.4 tablet or phone will continue to run for another year or two.
Have a specific error code? Leave a comment below (or search the XDA Developers forum for your device model). Good luck, KitKat warrior! google play services apk android 44
Google Play Services for Android 4.4 KitKat (API 19) is no longer officially supported by Google as of July 2023
. Because KitKat makes up less than 1% of active devices, it no longer receives official security updates or new features. However, you can still download the final compatible APK version to keep existing apps like Google Maps and Gmail functional on older hardware. Latest Compatible Version
The final stable version of Google Play Services that supports Android 4.4 is , released in August 2023. 23.30.13 (000300-552628474) Release Date: August 4, 2023 Architecture: armeabi-v7a File Size: Where to Download
Since the Play Store may not provide the update for such an old OS, you must manually "sideload" the APK from trusted third-party repositories:
A highly trusted repository where you can find specific variants for your device's architecture and DPI.
Another reliable source for browsing older, compatible versions if the absolute latest causes crashes. How to Install Enable Unknown Sources: Settings > Security and check the box for Unknown Sources to allow installation from outside the Play Store. Download the APK: Use your device's browser to download the APK from one of the sources above. Run the Installer:
Open the downloaded file from your "Downloads" folder and tap Update anyway
Reboot your device to ensure all Google background services initialize correctly. Why You Need It Google Play Services APK Android 44 — What
Android 4.4 requires a specific "legacy" version of Google Play Services. Most modern versions will not install or will crash immediately. Architecture: Most KitKat devices use ARM (32-bit). DPI: Choose "nodpi" for universal compatibility.
Version Number: Look for versions starting with 14.x or 19.x, as these were the last to officially support KitKat. 📥 Recommended Sources
Do not download from unverified sites. Stick to reputable APK mirrors:
APKMirror: Search for "Google Play Services" and filter by Android 4.4.
APKPure: Often hosts older versions in their "Version History" section. Uptodown: Reliable for finding archived APKs. 📲 Installation Steps
Enable Unknown Sources: Go to Settings > Security and toggle on "Unknown Sources." Download: Use your device browser to grab the APK.
Install: Open the file from your "Downloads" folder and follow the prompts.
Reboot: Always restart your phone after updating system services. ⚠️ Potential Issues Warning: Do not download APKs from pop-up ads
"App Not Installed" Error: This usually means the architecture (ARM vs x86) is wrong.
Google Services Framework: You may also need to update the "Services Framework" if apps still won't sync.
Account Sync: Older versions may struggle with modern Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
Are you trying to fix a specific error message, or just trying to get a particular app to run on your KitKat device?
Open your browser and search for: "Google Play Services 20.45.56 APKMirror"
nodpi or 240dpi works for most).Suggested filename pattern:
com.google.android.gms_23.30.99_(040400-...)_(arch)_(dpi).apk
Method A: If you have a File Manager
Method B: If the Play Store App is Completely Missing If your phone does not have the Google Play Store app installed at all (e.g., you are using a custom ROM), you cannot just install Play Services. You must install them in this specific order to avoid errors:
Example APK filename pattern (ARM):
com.google.android.gms_23.30.18_(040400-...)-...-040400_minAPI19(armeabi-v7a).apk
Direct search tip: On APKMirror, filter by “Minimum Android: 4.4 (KitKat, API 19)”.