Google Play’s APK file size limit has been raised

Developers uploading applications to Google Play were left with an APK file size limit of 50MB prior to today. Now though, developers can publish APKs that are up to 100MB in size. For anything higher than 100MB or requiring expansion files, Google will continue issuing a warning to users to let them know that their downloads are of larger size.

The company notes that users still have auto-updates over WiFi as a default setting on their devices.

Google also reminds developers that there are multiple factors to consider when sizing apps:

• Mobile data connectivity: Users around the world have varying mobile data connectivity speeds. Particularly in developing countries, many people are coming online with connections slower than those of users in countries like the U.S. and Japan. Users on a slow connection are less likely to install an app or game that is going to take a long time to download.
• Mobile data caps: Many mobile networks around the world give users a limited number of MB that they can download each month without incurring additional charges. Users are often wary of downloading large files for fear of exceeding their limits.
• App performance: Mobile devices have limited RAM and storage space. The larger your app or game, the slower it may run, particularly on older devices.
• Install time: People want to start using your app or game as quickly as possible after tapping the install button. Longer wait times increase the risk they’ll give up.

Raising the APK file size limit will allow developers to produce apps and games with smoother experiences and more features.

Source: Android Developers Blog

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