Memory Management

Google sets Android memory rules for apps, deadline set for February 2027

Google has issued new guidelines requiring Android app developers to reduce memory consumption, giving them until February 2027 to comply. The move responds to a global memory shortage that has pushed phone makers to cut RAM in entry-level devices, often dropping from 6-8GB to just 4GB. Apps exceeding Google's memory thresholds for dynamic RAM use, bitmap handling, and DEX code will be throttled or force-closed by the OS.

tomshardware.com · 2026-08-28

Google imposes new memory-efficiency rules for Android apps amid chip shortage

Google announced two new Android app quality requirements in response to memory chip shortages fueled by AI data center demand. One mandates stricter thresholds on dynamic memory and bitmap usage along with code optimization to prevent crashes and slowdowns, while the other requires apps to automatically restore sign-in status when users switch devices, via the Zero Tap Sign-In standard. Developers have until February 2027 for the memory rules and April 2027 for sign-in compliance.

techcrunch.com · 2026-08-27