Google is updating its requirements for Android apps as developers across the industry contend with memory chip shortages fueled by the surge in AI data centers. This week, the company unveiled two new app quality standards, with one specifically targeting reduced memory consumption and more efficient code. According to Google, the mobile sector is currently experiencing "significant hardware supply constraints that are altering device memory availability," which can subsequently impact how smoothly consumers use their devices.

To tackle this issue, Google is introducing fresh performance benchmarks across various areas, including dynamic memory usage and bitmap handling. Additionally, the company is adding code optimization requirements aimed at preventing performance-related problems like app slowdowns and crashes. To support developers, Google is launching new tools that will notify them when their apps cross these thresholds, enabling them to refine their code proactively. The company noted that more diagnostic features will be released later this year, including enhanced insights from a Memory Limiter tool designed to stop apps from consuming excessive device memory.

These adjustments are intended to help Android app and game creators maintain a high-quality user experience, Google said, while adapting to a market where memory availability may be tighter—especially for budget-friendly devices where cost is a key factor. Developers have until February 2027 to comply with the new thresholds, which are outlined on Google’s Android Developer site. Furthermore, the company will mandate that all Play Store apps meet the Zero Tap Sign-In requirement for device migrations by April 2027. This standard dictates that apps with user sign-ins, whether optional or required, must automatically restore the user’s sign-in state when they switch between Android devices using the Android Restore Credentials API.