March 5, 2026, 4:37 pm | Read time: 2 minutes
Many are familiar with the problem: A smartphone’s battery drains faster than expected. Google aims to take stronger action against apps with high battery consumption and plans to clearly label such power-hungry apps in the future.
The focus is on a feature called “Wake Locks.” This allows apps to keep the device active even when the screen is off. It’s needed, for example, when playing music or transferring data. However, if this technology is used for too long, it can significantly reduce battery life.
Clear Limit for Background Activity
Google is now setting fixed limits for this usage. These are metrics that Google uses to measure, among other things, the stability and energy consumption of apps. According to the Android Developers Blog, usage is considered excessive if an app keeps so-called Partial Wake Locks active for more than two hours within 24 hours.
An app is considered problematic if it uses Wake Locks for too long. This is the case if it happens in more than five percent of app usage within 28 days. These values are evaluated through Android Vitals.
Also of interest: Google plans a revolution in online shopping
Possible Consequences in the Play Store
If apps exceed these limits, it can affect their visibility in the Play Store. In such cases, warning notices may appear on the store page. Additionally, the app may appear less frequently in recommendations or other areas of the store.
The labeling is intended to provide users with more transparency and encourage developers to program their apps more efficiently. The goal is to reduce unnecessary energy consumption and improve smartphone battery life.