Google introduces new android app performance standards amid memory chip shortages

Google has announced new requirements for Android apps, aimed at addressing memory chip shortages caused by the growth of AI data centers. The changes include performance thresholds for dynamic memory usage and bitmap usage, as well as code optimization requirements to prevent app slowdowns and crashes. Developers will have until February 2027 to meet these new standards, which are detailed on Google’s Android Developer site. To assist developers, Google is introducing tools that will notify them when their apps exceed the new thresholds, allowing for code optimization. Additional diagnostic tools, including a Memory Limiter feature, are expected later in the year. These measures are intended to ensure a quality user experience, especially on low-end devices where memory availability is limited. In addition to the performance requirements, Google will require all Play Store apps to comply with the Zero Tap Sign-In standard by April 2027. This standard mandates that apps automatically restore user sign-in states during device migrations using the Android Restore Credentials API. The changes reflect the broader industry challenge of hardware supply constraints, which are affecting device memory availability and, consequently, the consumer experience. Google’s actions are part of a larger trend as the mobile industry adapts to the demands of AI-driven data centers and the resulting shortages in memory chips.