Developer.com content and product recommendations are editorially independent. We may make money when you click on links to our partners. Learn More.
Google has announced that beginning in 2018 apps must meet minimum API standards to be included in the Google Play Store. That means that when developers update their apps or create new ones, they must use newer Android APIs rather than older ones. This will allow developers to take advantage of newer Android features, but it also forces them to use APIs that may have security or performance restrictions, such as preventing apps from using too much power.
The change could help Google combat the fragmentation problem that has plagued the Android ecosystem. In addition, the rule that says “Future Android versions will also restrict apps that don’t target a recent API level and adversely impact performance or security” could boost the quality of the apps in the Play Store. But the change could also spark a revolt in the mobile development industry.
