How to Update Your React Native App’s Target API Level for Google Play (2025 Guide)

Starting August 31, 2025, Google Play will block app updates if your app doesn’t target an API level within 1 year of the latest Android release. This ensures better security, performance, and user experience.

Step-by-Step Guide for React Native Developers

1. Check Your Current Target SDK Version

Open android/app/build.gradle and find:

android {
    defaultConfig {
        targetSdkVersion 31
    }
}

2. Find the Latest Android API Level

Visit the official Android API level page to find the latest version (e.g., Android 15 = API 35).

3. Update Target SDK Version

Modify targetSdkVersion and compileSdkVersion in android/app/build.gradle:

android {
    compileSdkVersion 35

    defaultConfig {
        targetSdkVersion 35
    }
}

4. Update Dependencies

Ensure your dependencies are compatible. Run the following commands:

npm install
cd android
./gradlew clean

5. Test Your App

Run your app on an emulator or device with the updated SDK:

npx react-native run-android

6. Build and Release

Generate a release build and upload to Play Console:

cd android
./gradlew assembleRelease

7. Example - Before and After

Before:

targetSdkVersion 31

After:

targetSdkVersion 35

8. Need More Time?

Google allows you to request a deadline extension directly in the Play Console under your app’s settings.