
In August 2024, Google introduced support for 16KB memory pages in the Android 15 preview update. Previously, Android systems primarily used 4KB pages; the transition to 16KB paging is expected to enhance the performance of both applications and the operating system itself. According to Google’s internal benchmarks, this shift yields a 5% to 10% improvement in overall system performance, albeit with a corresponding 9% increase in memory usage.
As Android device manufacturers continue to equip their hardware with increasingly larger memory capacities, Google is capitalizing on this trend to elevate the efficiency of the Android platform. Beginning November 1, 2025, developers submitting applications or games to the Google Play Store that support Android 15 or later must ensure compatibility with 16KB memory pages.
For most developers, supporting 16KB paging is not particularly complex. Google noted that a substantial number of applications are already compatible, and many developers may find their software meets the new requirements seamlessly. However, a thorough review of all app components is essential to ensure full compliance.
The developers’ responsibilities include:
- Applications or games without native code are likely already compatible and require no modifications.
- Those using libraries or SDKs containing native code may need to upgrade to the latest versions.
- Applications with native code will likely require recompilation using an updated toolchain, and developers must review for any incompatible low-level memory management routines.
Currently, the majority of native code in Android apps and SDKs is built around 4KB paging. Developers must adapt their binaries to support both 4KB and 16KB pages to ensure broad compatibility. SDK and toolchain maintainers, as well as app developers, are encouraged to begin testing and releasing 16KB-compatible versions promptly to facilitate seamless integration.
Developers can refer to the latest announcements in the Google Play Console. While applications that do not target Android 15 are not obligated to comply, it is unrealistic for active apps to forgo compatibility with newer Android versions. Thus, any submitted updates or newly published applications must meet this requirement.