Google Play now requires new apps and updates to target Android 16

Google Play’s yearly target API level requirement moved up on August 31, 2026. New apps and app updates must now target Android 16 (API level 36) or higher to be submitted to Google Play. Existing apps that don’t keep up lose visibility to new users on newer phones.

What each type of app must target

App type	New apps and updates	Existing apps, to stay available to new users on newer Android
Phones and tablets	Android 16 (API 36)	Android 15 (API 35)
Wear OS	Android 15 (API 35)	Above Android 13 (API 33)
Android Automotive OS	Android 15 (API 35)	Above Android 12 (API 31)
Android TV	Android 14 (API 34)	Above Android 13 (API 33)
Android XR	Android 14 (API 34)	Above Android 13 (API 33)

What happens to older apps

Google’s page says phone and tablet apps that target Android 14 (API level 34) or lower are only available on devices running the same Android version as their target, or an older one. The same rule applies to Wear OS, Android TV and Android XR apps that target Android 13 or lower, and Android Automotive OS apps that target Android 12 or lower. Google frames this as availability to new users on newer devices.

Extensions and exceptions

If you need more time, Google says you can request an extension to November 1, 2026 through a form in Play Console. Permanently private apps, restricted to users in one organization and meant only for internal distribution, are exempt.

Who is affected

Every developer who wants to ship an update on Google Play. The rule applies at submission, so even a small bug fix needs a build that targets API level 36, unless you have an extension.

What to do

If a no-code or AI app builder makes your Android build, check which target API level its export uses before you submit an update. If you can’t move to API 36 in time, request the extension in Play Console before your next release.