Technology
Google to require lower app memory usage and seamless sign-ins by 2027
The changes aim to address hardware supply constraints and improve the transition to new Android devices
The short version
- Google is introducing new memory limits and performance thresholds for Android apps starting in February 2027.
- By April 2027, app developers must support automatic user sign-in restoration during device transfers using a specific Google API.
- Apps that fail to meet the new performance and memory standards risk being throttled, terminated, or hidden from Google Play search results.
Key facts
- Google is establishing per-app memory limits and performance thresholds on Android 17 starting in February 2027 due to hardware supply constraints affecting memory availability.[9to5Google]
- Applications exceeding memory limits on Android 17 face performance throttling and potential termination, initially on Pixel devices before spreading to other manufacturers.[9to5Google]
- Google Play will evaluate apps across three performance areas: dynamic memory usage, bitmap memory usage, and a requirement for a minimum of 25% optimized DEX code coverage.[9to5Google]
- Failing to meet these performance thresholds will result in reduced app visibility and limited publishing capabilities on Google Play.[9to5Google]
- Starting in April 2027, Google Play will require app developers to implement a Zero-Tap Sign-In standard using the Android Restore Credentials API to automatically transfer sign-in states between devices.[9to5Google]
- Games are currently exempt from the April 2027 seamless sign-in requirement, with separate plans expected next year.[9to5Google]
What remains uncertain
- Google has not yet detailed the specific penalties or exact reduction metrics for visibility on Google Play, promising more details later in 2026.[9to5Google]