Android Question App must target Android 16 (API level 36) or higher

[Alex_197]

I just received an email from Google Play Console.

App must target Android 16 (API level 36) or higher



To provide users with a safe and secure experience, Google Play requires all apps to meet target API level requirements.
From Aug 30, 2026, if your target API level is not within 1 year of the latest Android release, you won't be able to update your app.


Is it safe to do it now?

When I tried to update my API in manifest I've got a message

The recommended value for android:targetSdkVersion is 35 (manifest editor). (warning #31)

 

[aminoacid]

When I tried to update my API in manifest I've got a message

The recommended value for android:targetSdkVersion is 35 (manifest editor). (warning #31)

Same Here!

 

[Alex_197]

Same Here!

Maybe Erel will update the EDI.

 

[Markos]

yep such short notice seems like they found a serious bug to be so sudden with just over a month to comply
OR
Someone clicked a wrong button on googleplay admin alert console lol

 

[Erel]

Working on an update. Beta version is planned to be released next week.

 

[Chris2]

You can request more time in the Play Console:

Doing so moved my deadline to 1st November.
And in any case, it just means that your next update after the deadline must target API level 36 or higher. So if you aren't planning any updates you don't need to do anything (I think!).

 

[aminoacid]

Doing so moved my deadline to 1st November.
And in any case, it just means that your next update after the deadline must target API level 36 or higher. So if you aren't planning any updates you don't need to do anything (I think!).

I believe you are right. You have upto Aug 30th (or Nov 1 with extension) to publish/update Apps with API Level < 36. Then after that if you intend to update your app, it must target 36 or higher. If you don't need to update your App, you don't need to be concerned - I don't think they will be removing your App from the Store because it does not target 36+