Google, in response to a shortage of memory chips in the tech industry, has set new requirements for Android apps; a shortage that has been exacerbated by the boom in AI data centers and increased demand for related hardware.
This tech giant this week announced two new quality requirements for apps, one of which focuses on reducing apps' memory usage and optimizing their code.
Google explained that the mobile industry is now facing "significant constraints in hardware supply"; constraints that are changing the amount of memory available on devices and can affect users' experience of using their devices.
Google further limits memory usage of apps
To address these conditions, Google is setting new performance thresholds in several areas including dynamic memory usage and bitmap consumption. The company has also introduced new code optimization requirements designed to prevent issues such as app slowdowns and performance-related crashes.
To help developers, Google is also providing new tools that will alert developers if apps exceed the set thresholds. This way, they can take necessary actions to reduce memory usage by optimizing their code.
Google also announced that it will release more diagnostic tools later this year. These tools will include more detailed information about the memory-limiting capability; a feature that prevents apps from consuming excessive device memory.
Memory shortage pressure on low-cost phones
According to Google, these changes are intended to help Android app and game developers deliver a high-quality experience; especially in conditions where memory may not be widely available.
This issue can be particularly important for low-cost devices, because supply constraints and price concerns can affect the amount of memory used in these products.
Developers have until February 2027 to align their apps with the new thresholds set on Google’s Android developer website.
Google's new requirement for automatic sign-in to apps
In addition to the memory-related changes, Google has announced that all Play Store apps must be compatible with the "Zero Tap Sign-In" requirement when transferring between devices by April 2027.
Under this standard, apps that use a user sign-in system, whether sign-in is optional or mandatory, must automatically restore the user's sign-in state when moving between Android devices.
This process will use the Android Restore Credentials API so that users can continue using apps after moving to a new Android device without needing to sign into their account again.