Android Device Support and Rave Build App Updates

Google is introducing new requirements for Android apps published through the Google Play Store.

From 31 August 2026, new apps and app updates submitted to Google Play must target Android 16 (API level 36) or higher. This requirement is designed to ensure Android apps continue to meet Google’s latest security, privacy and performance standards.

What does this mean for Rave Build?

To continue releasing updates to the Rave Build Android app, we need to keep the app compatible with Google’s latest Android requirements.

As Android continues to evolve, some older devices and some reasonably new devices may no longer be supported by their manufacturer and may not receive newer versions of Android.

This means that over time, an unsupported device may no longer be able to install the latest version of the Rave Build app or receive future app updates.

My device isn't very old could it still be affected?

Yes. Android updates are controlled by the device manufacturer, not just by the age of your phone or tablet.

Some manufacturers provide Android version updates for many years, while others stop providing major Android upgrades much sooner. Because of this, a relatively new device could still become unsupported if its manufacturer does not make newer Android versions available for that model.

How do I check my Android version?

On most Android devices:

1. Open Settings

2. Select About phone or About device

3. Select Android version or Software information

4. Check which version of Android your device is currently running

The exact steps may vary depending on your device manufacturer.

We also recommend checking for any available software or system updates for your device.

Is my device eligible for Android 16?

Compatibility varies by manufacturer and device model.

You can view a detailed list of devices reported as not eligible for the Android 16 update here:

View the Android 16 unsupported device list

Please note that manufacturer update policies can change, and the linked list itself notes that some eligibility information is based on manufacturers' existing update policies rather than confirmed Android 16 roadmaps.

Why is Rave making this change? This is not a Rave-specific requirement.

Google requires Android developers to regularly update their apps to target newer Android versions. This helps improve security, privacy, performance and compatibility across Android devices.

You can read Google's full Android app requirements here:

Google Play – Target API Level Requirements

What should I do if my device is unsupported?

If your device manufacturer no longer provides Android updates for your device, we recommend considering an upgrade to a device that continues to receive current Android software and security updates.

Keeping your device up to date will help ensure you can continue receiving the latest Rave Build app updates, features, improvements and security updates.