Google mandates 16 KB memory page size for Android apps to align with performance shift

Google is introducing a mandatory compatibility requirement for Android apps submitted to the Play Store, starting November 1, 2025. All new apps and updates targeting Android 15 or higher must support a 16 KB memory page size. This technical shift marks a significant move away from the traditional 4 KB memory page size that Android has relied on for years.

The change comes as Android evolves to support newer hardware configurations, particularly devices equipped with larger RAM. To keep pace, Android 15 refactors the OS to be page-size agnostic, allowing applications to take advantage of the increased memory page size and its related performance improvements. This support is already implemented in devices like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 9.

Memory page size impacts how efficiently the operating system allocates memory. When using a 16 KB page size instead of 4 KB, the system requires less frequent memory management intervention, resulting in reduced overhead. This benefits app performance in several measurable ways, such as faster launch times (up to 30%), quicker camera access (4.5–6.6% improvements), improved battery efficiency (averaging a 4.5% gain), and faster system boot times (around 8%).

Apps that do not comply with the new memory requirement risk becoming unstable or incompatible with devices that adopt 16 KB memory pages in future Android releases. Google advises developers to prepare early by testing their apps in 16 KB environments and ensuring all native components, including libraries and SDKs, are updated to compatible versions.

Google reports that many existing apps are already compatible, especially those without native code, which typically require no changes. Developers using native code will likely need to recompile using updated toolchains and verify memory management compatibility. Popular SDKs such as React Native and Flutter already support 16 KB, and engines like Unity are also compatible, with Unreal Engine updates expected soon.

To assist with the transition, developers can check their app’s compatibility using the App Bundle Explorer in the Play Console. This tool helps identify whether an app supports the required memory page size and highlights areas needing attention.