I received a message about Google Play's 16kb memory requirements for my Android app. What do I need to do?
Google's Message on 16 KB Page Size Requirements
Received a Google email about your Android app not supporting 16 KB memory page sizes? If it mentions you won’t be able to release app updates after Nov 1, 2025 or May 1, 2026, here’s what it really means.
Breaking it Down
Google is tightening requirements around how Android apps are built to support devices that use larger 16 KB memory pages (instead of the older 4 KB standard).
Here are the key dates:
- Nov 1, 2025 → Every new app or new build submitted to Google Play must support 16 KB memory pages.
- May 1, 2026 → All updates to existing apps must support 16 KB memory pages.
Implications for Your Existing App
If your app is already live on Google Play and built with BDK:
- ✅ Your app will not be removed from the Play Store.
- ✅ It will stay downloadable, discoverable, and fully functional.
- ✅ You do not need a mandatory rebuild before May 1, 2026.
- ⚠️ Only if you want to release a new update or rebuild after May 1, 2026 will the requirement apply.
In short: existing apps remain safe and live. The new rule matters only when you generate a new build.
BDK's Plan for Compliance
We don’t yet have the updated source code for 16 KB compatibility, but here’s our plan:
- We will update our codebase to meet the 16 KB page size requirement before Nov 1, 2025.
- This means:
- Any rebuilds or new apps ordered after Nov 1, 2025 will automatically meet the requirement.
- Updates to existing apps before May 1, 2026 can still be submitted, but after that date, all updates will also comply.
No special action is needed from your side — we’ll ensure compatibility in time.
Timeline of Requirements
Date | What Applies | What It Means for You |
|---|---|---|
Before Nov 1, 2025 | No change | You can publish new apps, rebuilds, and updates as usual. |
Nov 1, 2025 onward | New apps & rebuilds | Every new app or rebuild must support 16 KB pages (BDK will handle this automatically). |
May 1, 2026 onward | Updates to existing apps | If you update your app after this date, it must support 16 KB pages. If you don’t update, your existing app stays live. |
Ready for an Upgrade?
If you’re planning a rebuild or a new app later this year, just order as usual. After November 2025, our updated code will automatically ensure compliance.
Crave More Insights?
For more details, check Google’s 16 KB page size FAQ.
Updated on: 09/11/2025
Thank you!