November 1, 2025: Google Play Mandates 16KB Page Size Support for Android 15+ Applications

Google Play is implementing a significant new requirement for Android app developers, set to take effect on November 1, 2025. From this date, all new applications and updates to existing apps submitted to the Google Play Store that target Android 15 (API level 35) and higher must support 16KB memory page sizes on 64-bit devices. This mandate aims to enhance performance and optimize memory management on the latest Android hardware. The change has prompted discussions within the developer community, with figures like React Native developer Dan Romero asking, > "How are other React Native developers thinking about the November 1st 16kb page size / 64-bit for Android 15+?"

Historically, the Android operating system has managed memory in 4KB pages. However, as device manufacturers equip smartphones with increasing amounts of RAM, many are adopting larger page sizes, such as 16KB, to further optimize device performance. Android 15 introduces native support for this increased page size, making the transition possible. This move is a proactive measure by Google to ensure that applications function optimally and can fully leverage advancements in hardware, mirroring past transitions like the widespread adoption of 64-bit app support.

Google anticipates that this shift will yield substantial performance improvements across both applications and the overall system. Expected benefits include faster app launches, with improvements ranging from 3% to 30% depending on the application. Users can also look forward to an average 4.5% improvement in battery usage and quicker camera starts, with speeds increasing by 4.5% to 6.6%. Furthermore, system boot-up times are projected to be approximately 8% faster, collectively contributing to a smoother and more responsive user experience.

The impact on developers will vary based on their application's composition. Apps written exclusively in Java or Kotlin, without any native code, are generally expected to be compatible without requiring modifications. However, applications that incorporate native code, utilize Android NDK libraries, or rely on third-party SDKs that contain native components may necessitate updates or recompilation. Google has noted that popular development frameworks such as React Native and Flutter already offer compatible versions, while Unity, a leading game engine, supports the new standard, and Unreal Engine is expected to follow suit soon. Developers can leverage tools like the Play Console's App Bundle Explorer and APK Analyzer to assess compatibility and identify necessary adjustments.

This new requirement underscores Google's ongoing commitment to evolving the Android platform in anticipation of future hardware capabilities. Developers are strongly encouraged to begin testing their applications in a 16KB environment, utilizing emulators or supported physical devices, to ensure seamless functionality ahead of the November 2025 deadline. The transition is designed to future-proof the Android ecosystem, delivering enhanced performance and efficiency for users as device technology continues to advance.