Google mandated developers to create 64-bit versions of their apps back in 2019, and has now added Google TV and Android TV to the list. All apps for these platforms must be updated by August 2026, the company said in a blog post.
The changes come as Google TV and Android TV devices will soon be able to support 64-bit apps, something they didn't have when the company first introduced the change in 2019. Compared to 32-bit apps, such apps offer better performance, faster launch times, and a better user experience.
For developers' apps to be supported on new devices, they must implement 64-bit (arm64) versions in addition to the existing 32-bit (armeabi-v7a) versions. However, if developers are targeting Android 15 or higher, 64-bit versions must be compatible with 16KB memory pages.
There are no plans to change support for 32-bit apps at this time, and they will continue to be available on Google Play. The company also says that developers will be required to provide both versions of their apps.
Recall that earlier this year, Google said that TVs running Android TV, or Google TV, would require less RAM. This would potentially make them more affordable, but also slower.