Google Clamps Down on Memory-Hungry Android Apps

Google is cracking down on Android app developers who consume too much memory. The company has published a memo warning that apps that exceed new memory usage limits will be slowed down, terminated, or even see reduced visibility and publishing capabilities on Google Play.

The move comes in response to the RAM crisis, which has led to hardware constraints and broader memory limits for Android devices. According to Google, the new restrictions are intended to help developers navigate these challenges and ensure their apps work smoothly across a range of devices.

The memory limitations were first introduced with Android 17, and now Google is enforcing them more strictly. As of February 2027, any app that exceeds the limits will face consequences, including being slowed down or terminated.

Google has warned developers that they need to adapt their apps to meet the new memory usage thresholds, which range from 4GB to 16GB+ devices. While some time is given for developers to adjust, the stakes are high: failing to comply could lead to reduced visibility and publishing capabilities on Google Play.

As Android 17 rolls out to more devices, Google's new policies aim to address the memory shortage that has affected both hardware and software development.