Google Play: target API level 36

What does Google Play require?

Since 31 August 2026, new apps and updates must target Android 16 (API level 36) to be submitted to Google Play, and Google lets you request an extension to 1 November 2026. Apps already published must target at least API 35 to stay available to new users on newer versions of Android; below that, people on newer devices can no longer install them.

Where it comes from in a Flutter app

A Flutter project sets targetSdk = flutter.targetSdkVersion in android/app/build.gradle(.kts), and Flutter supplies the number: 36 from Flutter 3.35, 35 in 3.27 to 3.32, 34 in 3.22 and 3.24. Older projects often have the number written in by hand, such as targetSdk = 34, and then upgrading Flutter changes nothing until that line changes. A plugin that does not build against SDK 36 can hold the upgrade back.

How to fix it

1. Run the free build check on the .apk or .aab. It reads the target API level from the manifest.
2. Upgrade Flutter to 3.35 or newer. 3.38 also brings the defaults that the 16 KB and Billing 8 requirements need.
3. In android/app/build.gradle(.kts), use targetSdk = flutter.targetSdkVersion and compileSdk = flutter.compileSdkVersion, or set both to 36.
4. Update plugins that fail to build against SDK 36, and test the behaviour changes of Android 16.
5. If you need more time, request the extension in Play Console, until 1 November 2026.

The free build check reads your .apk or .aab in the browser and shows whether this applies to your build, without uploading anything.

Or have the whole build checked: the store readiness audit is €190, 2 working days.

Google Play requirements