Why RAMageddon Might Force Apps and Operating Systems’ Performance to Suck Less
AI demand is eating memory supplies, so Google is cracking down on Android memory hogs.
RAMageddon, a term gaining traction due to the soaring prices of RAM, may soon force apps and operating systems to run more smoothly. Google has set new requirements for Android app developers, effective from 2027, demanding strict memory thresholds in order to prevent a single poorly-performing app from slowing down the entire device. This is not merely a suggestion but a strict rule with severe consequences for non-compliance, including slowdowns and termination.
The motivation behind these new rules, Google explicitly stated, is the memory supply shortage, a scarce and expensive resource in the booming AI demand. These new rules are designed to promote efficient memory use, faster app launches, and smoother multitasking experiences. These rules could potentially prevent our phones from slowing down with every OS update, prolonging the life of older hardware.
The surge in memory requirements is primarily due to the AI push, where on-device AI features like local LLMs, image generation, and advanced photo editing require bursts of memory. The current system's resource allocation is skewed towards high-margin devices, thus making low-end configurations of phones and computers critical to sustaining sales.
Manufacturers are rethinking their approach due to the memory crunch, and the benefits of improving phone performance could continue even if the memory shortage eases in 2027. In the long run, making smartphones less sluggish should prove beneficial. The memory shortages are expected to result in more efficient smartphones that can maintain high performance even on lower-end hardware.
Written by urgent.news from CNET's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
