A critical deadline is approaching for .NET MAUI developers who distribute applications through Google Play. Beginning November 1, 2025, Google Play will mandate that all new applications and updates designed for Android 15 and higher must be compatible with 16 KB page sizes on 64-bit devices.

Understanding the 16 KB Memory Page Requirement

Android is transitioning from its traditional 4 KB memory page architecture to a larger 16 KB format. This shift is designed to enhance performance on modern devices equipped with substantial RAM. The benefits of this architectural change extend beyond system-level improvements and directly impact individual applications:

• Faster Application Launch: Applications experience an average 3.16% reduction in launch time, with some apps seeing improvements up to 30%
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Power consumption during app launch decreases by an average of 4.56%
• Better System Responsiveness: The overall Android operating system becomes more responsive. For example, the native camera app shows 4.48% faster hot starts and 6.60% faster cold starts

Compatibility with .NET MAUI

The positive news for developers is that .NET MAUI 9 includes native support for 16 KB page sizes. To ensure your application meets Google's requirements, simply migrate your .NET MAUI (or .NET for Android) project to .NET 9. Once upgraded, your application will automatically comply with the 16 KB page size standard.

Important Note: Keep in mind that .NET MAUI 8 reached its end-of-support date on May 14, 2025, according to the official .NET MAUI support policy.

Auditing Your Project Dependencies

Compliance isn't just about your main application—every dependency in your .NET MAUI project must also support 16 KB page sizes. During the build process, the system will alert you to any non-compliant dependencies with warnings similar to:

Android 16 will require 16 KB page sizes, shared library '{library_name}' does not have a 16 KB page size. Please inform the authors of the NuGet package '{package_name}' version '{version}' which contains '{file_path}'. See https://developer.android.com/guide/practices/page-sizes for more details.

When encountering these warnings, follow this approach:

• Upgrade the problematic dependency to a newer version with 16 KB support
• Reach out to package maintainers if no compatible version exists
• Consider alternative packages if the original is no longer actively maintained

For developers who want to perform additional verification, Google provides command-line tools in their documentation that can help validate compliance for your application and its dependencies.

Your Preparation Checklist

To meet the November 2025 deadline, follow these steps:

• Migrate to .NET 9 if you're currently on an earlier version
• Analyze all dependencies for 16 KB page size compatibility
• Update or substitute any dependencies that don't meet the requirements
• Thoroughly test your application in a 16 KB environment using Android emulators or developer options on physical Android devices

Critical Reminder: Don't postpone this work until the last moment. Begin your preparation immediately to ensure smooth app submissions that comply with Google Play policies and maintain uninterrupted release schedules.

Final Thoughts

While the 16 KB page size requirement introduces a new compliance obligation, it also delivers tangible performance improvements. The .NET MAUI 9 framework is already equipped to handle this requirement—your responsibility is ensuring your dependencies are equally prepared. Upgrade to .NET 9, conduct a thorough dependency audit, and validate your application in 16 KB testing environments to be ready well before the November 2025 cutoff date.

Android 15: Revolutionizing Mobile Experiences

Android 15, codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream, was a significant leap forward in mobile OS innovation. Released earlier this year, it focused on delivering enhanced security, communication, and usability features for both everyday users and enterprise environments.

Key Features in Android 15:

1. Private Space:
   Android 15 introduced Private Space, a virtual sandbox within the OS. This feature allows users to store sensitive files, apps, and data separately from the main environment, ensuring confidentiality. It's especially useful for professionals managing personal and work accounts on the same device.

2. Enhanced Satellite Messaging:
   Taking connectivity to the next level, Android 15 supports satellite communication. While initially limited to premium devices, this feature ensures users remain connected even in remote or offline areas, marking a step forward in global communication capabilities.

3. Partial Screen Recording:
   This innovative tool lets users record specific sections of their screen instead of the entire display. Ideal for sharing specific app workflows or sensitive content without revealing everything on-screen, it became a favorite among tech influencers and educators.

4. Advanced Security Measures:
   Android 15 strengthened device security by including monthly security patches, encrypted backup improvements, and app activity transparency, ensuring user safety against modern digital threats.

5. Performance Optimizations:
   With improved energy efficiency and reduced background process consumption, Android 15 extended battery life and boosted performance, especially on mid-range devices.

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Android 16 Developer Preview: A Glimpse into the Future

Android 16 aims to build on Android 15’s solid foundation with groundbreaking improvements and cutting-edge technology. The first developer preview teases several enhancements that cater to developers and end-users alike.

What’s New in Android 16?

1. AI-Enhanced Personalization:
   Android 16 integrates artificial intelligence deeply into the OS to adapt to individual usage patterns. From predictive app suggestions to dynamic interface adjustments, AI creates a more intuitive user experience.

2. Cross-Device Harmony:
   Google is focusing on seamless cross-device operations, making it easier to transition between Android-powered smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices. Developers can leverage new APIs to build apps that offer consistent experiences across device ecosystems.

3. Sustainability and Efficiency:
   The latest version takes sustainability seriously by introducing features that optimize energy consumption. Enhanced battery management tools and smarter resource allocation extend device life and reduce carbon footprints.

4. Advanced Accessibility Features:
   Accessibility tools are getting a major upgrade, ensuring inclusivity for all users. Enhanced voice control, real-time transcription, and assistive gesture navigation are some of the highlights aimed at supporting diverse user needs.

5. Developer-Centric Updates:
   Android 16 offers new tools to developers, including improvements to Jetpack Compose for creating responsive UI designs, updated debugging tools, and extended support for foldable and large-screen devices.

Why Developers Should Explore the Preview:

The first developer preview is a goldmine for app creators, allowing them to adapt their apps early to leverage Android 16's new capabilities. From API testing to performance benchmarking, this is a pivotal moment for the developer community to innovate alongside the OS.

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Conclusion

Android 15 and Android 16 demonstrate Google’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the mobile experience. While Android 15 brought essential upgrades in security, connectivity, and usability, Android 16 pushes boundaries with AI-driven innovation and sustainability. Developers and users can look forward to a transformative era in mobile technology as these advancements become mainstream.

For developers, now is the time to dive into the Android 16 Developer Preview and explore its offerings to craft the next generation of apps that define the Android experience.

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References

Android 15 Features

Android 16 Features

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