Google has warned Android app developers to slow their roll when it comes to memory consumption, as smartphone manufacturers grapple with the RAM crisis forcing the price of hardware up.
In Android 17, Google introduced memory limits that prevent apps from draining resources. To build on these limits, Google is adding new performance thresholds to enable developers to keep tabs on dynamic memory usage, while ensuring their code is optimised for getting the most from the available resources. In an announcement today (via TechCrunch), Google said it will go after apps that exceed restrictions on memory usage that can slow down devices.
Google said: “Starting in February 2027, apps and games must meet their respective bad behaviour thresholds for Memory usage.” It added that “apps and games that do not meet these thresholds may see reduced app visibility and publishing capabilities on Google Play.”
In Android 17, Google also introduced a Memory Limiter, which prevents the amount of overall memory apps can use. It plans to offer more diagnostic tools and insights courtesy of this feature. “Our goal is to help you continuously optimise your footprint and elevate the experience you provide your users,” Google tells devs.
It’s an uphill battle for all concerned given the nature of the current RAM crisis. As apps get more powerful, particularly in the gaming and AI realms, they will naturally demand more resources.
However, we may reach a point where manufacturers stop responding in kind. They may rule out adding more RAM to their devices, and perhaps even begin to drop the amount of available RAM in an effort to keep the prices of hardware reasonable. If that’s gonna work, something’s got to give.
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