Google Play Policy & API Updates Effective August 31, 2025: What Developers Need to Know

Google Play has announced a comprehensive set of policies and API updates that will come into effect on August 31, 2025. Importantly, these changes are part of Google’s continuous efforts to strengthen user security, improve app quality, and ensure consistency across its ecosystem.

For developers and businesses with apps on the Play Store, these updates are not optional. Furthermore, failing to comply with the new requirements could result in apps being removed from the Play Store, preventing new users from discovering them and limiting access for existing users.

In this article, we are providing a comprehensive breakdown of the new policies, their technical implications, and how developers can prepare.

Target API Level Requirements

First and foremost, one of the most critical changes in this update revolves around target API levels.

New Apps & Updates: Starting August 31, 2025, all new apps and app updates submitted to the Play Store must target Android 15 (API level 35) or higher. Additionally, this ensures that apps leverage the latest security features and performance optimizations provided by the Android operating system.

Existing Apps: Meanwhile, apps already published on the Play Store will need to target at least Android 14 (API level 34) to remain visible to users with newer devices. Consequently, apps that fail to meet this requirement may remain installed for existing users but will no longer be available for download by new users.

Extension Option: Fortunately, Google is offering a short grace period. Developers can request an extension until November 1, 2025, through the Play Console. However, this should be treated as a backup option rather than a primary strategy.

Why this policy matters to your mobile app

Essentially, apps targeting outdated API levels miss out on the latest security patches, privacy controls, and performance improvements. Therefore, this requirement ensures that all active apps remain compatible with modern devices and meet user expectations.

Play Billing Library

In addition to API requirements, another key change relates to in-app purchases and subscriptions.

All new apps and app updates must now use Play Billing Library version 7 or newer. Notably, this is a significant update as it impacts how developers handle in-app purchases (IAPs), subscriptions, refunds, and payment flows.

Moreover, Google emphasises this requirement to improve transaction security, provide a consistent purchase experience, and reduce fraudulent activities.

Similar to the API level requirement, developers may request an extension until November 1, 2025, to migrate to the new library.

SDK & Development Tools

To ensure a smooth transition, Google strongly recommends developers use the latest Android SDK and associated development tools.

Specifically, the SDK Upgrade Assistant in Android Studio helps developers identify outdated dependencies, upgrade API levels, and resolve compatibility issues.

As a result, this reduces manual effort, minimises migration errors, and ensures that apps take advantage of new frameworks, improved APIs, and enhanced security controls.

Ultimately, staying updated with the Android SDK isn’t just about compliance; it’s about future-proofing your app. Apps built on outdated SDKs may struggle with compatibility on new devices, leading to crashes and poor reviews.

Scoped Storage & File Access

Meanwhile, Google introduced Scoped Storage in Android 11, and by 2025, it will become an enforced standard.

Moving forward, apps will no longer have broad access to external storage. Instead, they must:

• Store files in app-specific directories
• Use the MediaStore API for media files
• Leverage the Storage Access Framework (SAF) when users need to select specific files

Impact on developers: Consequently, apps that still rely on legacy storage permissions may face rejection or functionality issues on Android 15. Therefore, migrating to Scoped Storage ensures smoother performance, stronger security, and better user trust.

Deprecated APIs

Furthermore, Google has clarified that apps relying on deprecated or outdated APIs may face rejection during Play Store review.

Essentially, deprecated APIs are those that are no longer recommended because newer, more secure alternatives exist.

As a result, continuing to use them increases the risk of crashes, security vulnerabilities, and poor performance on modern devices.

News and Magazines Apps

If your app falls under the News and Magazines category, there’s an extra requirement you can’t afford to miss.

Specifically, developers must submit a special declaration in the Play Console.

Notably, the deadline for this was August 27, 2025, slightly earlier than the general policy update.

Ultimately, this declaration ensures that apps categorised as news sources meet standards for credibility, transparency, and responsible content distribution.

How Knowband Can Help

If your store is built on PrestaShop, OpenCart, WooCommerce, or Magento 2, Knowband has you covered.

Our Mobile App Builder Module is already fully compatible with Google’s latest policy changes.

Here’s what we offer:

• Hassle-free update process for your eCommerce app without interrupting your business operations
• Guaranteed compliance with the new target API level requirement and all other Google Play policies
• End-to-end support from our expert team for smooth migration, testing, and deployment
• Proven track record of helping thousands of merchants successfully launch and maintain Google Play-compliant apps

With Knowband, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the technical compliance and optimisation for your mobile app.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the August 31, 2025, Google Play deadline is approaching fast, and for Android developers and eCommerce store owners, it’s a milestone that cannot be ignored. Unfortunately, missing these updates could result in app removal, loss of visibility, reduced downloads, and disruption of your business operations.

However, by acting early and adopting the right strategies, you can ensure your app stays compliant, secure, and optimised for the latest Android ecosystem.

With Knowband’s Mobile App Builder, you get a hassle-free, future-proof solution designed for PrestaShop, OpenCart, WooCommerce, and Magento 2 stores. From guaranteed Google Play compliance to delivering a seamless shopping experience for your customers, Knowband helps you stay ahead of deadlines and competition.

Don’t wait until the last minute, upgrade your store app with Knowband today and keep your business growing without interruptions!

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• PrestaShop Mobile App Builder

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