TesterAgent

Google Play target API level 36: what changed and how to check your app

Since 31 August 2026, new apps and app updates for phones and tablets on Google Play must target Android 16 (API level 36); existing apps must target at least API 35 to stay available to new users on newer Android versions. Developers who asked for an extension have until 1 November 2026. You can check the target API of an APK by uploading it to TesterAgent's free app check, which also tests 16 KB page alignment, permissions and signing, and deletes the file after the check.

By TesterAgent · Last reviewed

App (APK)

Android .apk only, up to 150 MB. We check the file (security, Google Play rules, translations) — the free check does not run the app. We delete the file right after the check.

By running a check you agree to the Terms and the Acceptable Use Policy.

No account needed for one free check — a website or an app. The report link works for 7 days. Create a free account to keep every report. · See a sample report

What the rule says

Google Play target API requirements (checked 2026-10-05)
Device typeNew apps and updates must targetExisting apps (to stay available to new users)
Phones, tablets, Android AutoAndroid 16 (API 36) from 31 Aug 2026 (extension to 1 Nov 2026)Android 15 (API 35)
Wear OSAndroid 15 (API 35) from 31 Aug 2026Android 14 (API 34)
Android Automotive OSAndroid 15 (API 35) from 31 Aug 2026Android 12L (API 32)
Android TVAndroid 14 (API 34)Android 13 (API 33)
Android XRAndroid 14 (API 34) from 31 Aug 2026Android 14 (API 34)

Source: Google Play Console Help: Target API level requirements

Key dates

  • 31 August 2026 — new apps and updates (phones, tablets) must target API 36.
  • 1 November 2026 — end of the extension you can request in Play Console.

How to find your app’s targetSdk

In Gradle it is targetSdk = 36 in the defaultConfig block of the app module. Raising it turns on Android 16 behaviour changes, so test the app after the change.

How to check a built APK

Upload the .apk above (up to 150 MB, free, no account). Or, with the Android SDK installed, run aapt dump badging app.apk and read targetSdkVersion.

Also check: 16 KB page size

Apps with native libraries must also support 16 KB memory pages. See the 16 KB guide.

What our check doesn’t do

  • .aab bundles and split APKs (upload a universal APK).
  • Runtime behaviour in the free check (running the app is in Pro and Business).

Frequently asked questions

Does the requirement apply to existing apps that I don't update?

Existing apps must target at least API 35 to stay visible to new users on newer Android versions; check Google's page for your case.

Can I check an .aab file?

Not yet. Build a universal APK and upload that.

Do you keep my APK?

No. It is deleted right after the static check.

Does the free check run my app?

No. Running the app on our Android emulator is in Pro and Business.