The new policy establishes strict performance thresholds for dynamic memory usage and bitmap handling—the way apps process digital images—to ensure devices remain stable.
These updates are necessary because the shortage of memory components is limiting the amount of hardware resources available in new mobile devices, particularly for budget-friendly models.
Google warns that without these optimizations, consumers could face frequent app slowdowns and system crashes.
By forcing developers to refine their code, the company aims to maintain a smooth user experience across the Android ecosystem even as the competition for semiconductor components intensifies between mobile manufacturers and AI infrastructure providers.
To help developers adapt, Google is releasing diagnostic tools and a "Memory Limiter" feature to identify and prevent excessive resource consumption.
App and game makers have until February 2027 to meet these new memory thresholds.
Additionally, by April 2027, the company will mandate a "Zero Tap Sign-In" standard, which uses a specific technical interface to automatically restore a user's login credentials when they switch to a new Android device.