Google Play · In effect
Google Play requires Android 16 (API 36) targets
From 31 August 2026, new apps and app updates on Google Play must target Android 16 (API level 36). Extensions to 1 November 2026 were available on request.
The details
- Wear OS and Android Automotive OS apps need API 35; Android TV and Android XR apps need API 34.
- Existing apps that don't update need API 35 or higher to stay available to new users on newer Android versions.
- Targeting API 36 removes orientation and aspect-ratio locks on screens with a smallest width of 600dp or more, so tablets and foldables behave differently.
What to do
- Set targetSdk to 36 and test on a tablet and a foldable.
- Check edge-to-edge layouts, since the opt-out is gone.
- Update store screenshots if large-screen layouts changed.