Something's up: 16 core Android apps have been updated near simultaneously

A Reddit user first sounded the alarm less than 12 hours ago, reporting a somewhat suspicious activity: in total, 16 Google apps have received updates until now. This is highly unusual, and considering the massive hoop-la around the Nexus 5 these last 48 hours, we are definitely getting that gut feeling that Android 4.4 KitKat is right behind the corner.

Of course, it's worth pointing out that within that number of 16 apps, at least Google+ and Hangouts have a plausible explanation. The rest, however, are a good indicator that something is happening. What makes this even more curious, is the fact that these updates have not been pushed to any one device so far – you can see their updated date tags on the Play Store, but you ain't getting an automatic update as per usual.

Unfortunately, speculation hasn't really gotten us anywhere thus far, so this time around we'll let you form your own opinions. In case you're curious, you can see the full list of apps that have been updated right below.

Get Visible as low as $20/mo for 1 year. Limited time offer with code: FRESHSTART

$20 /mo

$25

$5 off (20%)

Offer Ends 6.1.2026 at 11.59pm ET. New members get $5/mo off the $25/mg Visible plan, $35/mo Visible+ plan, or $45/mo Visible+ Pro plan for the first 12 months. Promo code FRESHSTART required at checkout.

Buy at Visible