Google has confirmed that it plans to shut down Android’s Instant Apps later this year, attributing the decision to “low” usage of the functionality.
Instant Apps were introduced in 2017, and allow developers to create mini versions of Android apps that load, well, instantly.
Android Authority first reported that Google is moving on from the feature, which came to light after developer Leon Omelan spotted a warning about the change in Android Studio: “Instant Apps support will be removed by Google Play in December 2025.
Tooling support will be removed in Android Studio Otter Feature Drop.” Google spokesperson Nia Carter confirmed the decision to The Verge, explaining that Instant Apps simply haven’t been popular enough to continue supporting.
“Usage and engagement of Instant Apps have been low, and developers are leveraging other tools for app discovery such as AI-powered app highlights and simultaneous app installs,” Carter says.
Later this year, Google has confirmed that it will shut down Android’s Instant Apps, citing “low” usage as the reason.
With the introduction of Instant Apps in 2017, developers can now create miniature versions of Android apps that load—well, instantly. By simply clicking on a link, users can test out apps and demo games without having to install them completely. This gives users an easier time navigating the experience and gives developers additional avenues to reach new users.
Following developer Leon Omelan’s discovery of a warning about the change in Android Studio, Android Authority announced that Google is discontinuing the feature.
Google Play will stop supporting Instant Apps in December 2025. All Google Play Instant APIs and publishing will stop functioning. The Android Studio Otter Feature Drop will no longer support tooling. “.”.
According to Google spokesperson Nia Carter, who confirmed the decision to The Verge, Instant Apps haven’t been sufficiently successful to warrant further support.
According to Carter, “app developers are using other tools for app discovery, such as AI-powered app highlights and simultaneous app installs, because Instant Apps have had low usage and engagement.”. In order to encourage deeper engagement, this change enables us to make more investments in the tools that developers are finding effective and assist in guiding users to download the entire app. “.”.
