Google has announced a measure to address the issue of “new devices maintaining or even decreasing their physical memory capacity due to memory price increases,” as detailed in a blog post on 19 August. This situation, dubbed RAMageddon, requires developers to ensure their apps are optimized and tested to stay within the limits.
Android 17 may initially attempt to transfer some data usage to zRAM, a dedicated compressed memory area, to prevent device slowdown before any app is forcibly closed. However, delays might still occur during data decompression.
If the zRAM step fails, the operating system’s last resort is to automatically shut down the app. Developers are encouraged to closely monitor RAM usage to avoid this outcome.
This decision benefits Android users as it prevents background apps from overly burdening the RAM, which can affect the entire smartphone. Users with older devices having limited RAM should avoid overloading them with numerous apps.
What you need to know
Currently, these memory restrictions are applicable only to Pixel smartphones operating on Android 17. However, other manufacturers are expected to implement similar measures in the coming months. Check here to see if your smartphone will get Android 17.
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