Google will enforce new memory limits on Android apps starting February 2027. Apps that go over these limits risk being slowed down, shut down, or pushed lower in Play Store search. Another rule kicks in April 2027, requiring zero‑tap sign‑in when users move to a new phone.
On an 8GB RAM device, apps can use up to 2.25GB in the foreground and 1.5GB for services or background tasks. Bitmap memory is capped at 200MB for services and background, and 400MB when cached. Phones with 16GB or more RAM are mostly exempt. Developers also need to optimize DEX code for smoother performance.
Google warns that apps breaking these limits could lose visibility and installs. To help, the company is adding diagnostics and Memory Limiter tools that alert developers when apps cross thresholds.
The change comes as AI data centers consume global RAM supplies, raising costs and squeezing phone makers. Some new phones, like the Pixel 11, ship with less RAM than last year because of shortages. On‑device AI features like Gemini Nano add more pressure by using the same limited memory.
Budget phones with 4GB to 8GB RAM will feel the impact most. Developers will need to adjust their apps to fit tighter limits or risk losing visibility on Google Play.
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By 2027, Android apps must follow stricter memory rules and support seamless zero‑tap sign‑in transfers. Google is giving developers time to prepare, with enforcement deadlines set for February and April.
Check out the Android Developers Blog for more details.
