Google has officially announced the impending retirement of its Instant Apps feature, a decision set to take effect in December 2025. This move, attributed to the functionality’s lackluster usage rates, marks a significant shift in the company’s approach to app development and user engagement.
Launched in 2017, Instant Apps allowed developers to create streamlined versions of their applications that could be accessed instantly, enabling users to experience a taste of an app or game without the need for a full installation. This innovative concept aimed to simplify the user experience and broaden the reach of developers by providing a quick entry point to their offerings.
However, as reported by Android Authority, the feature has not gained the traction Google had hoped for. Developer Leon Omelan uncovered a warning within Android Studio indicating the forthcoming discontinuation of Instant Apps support. The notice stated:
“Instant Apps support will be removed by Google Play in December 2025. Publishing and all Google Play Instant APIs will no longer work. Tooling support will be removed in Android Studio Otter Feature Drop.”
Nia Carter, a spokesperson for Google, elaborated on the rationale behind this decision in a conversation with The Verge. She noted that the engagement levels for Instant Apps have been disappointingly low, prompting developers to explore alternative tools for app discovery. “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 explained. “This change allows us to invest more in the tools that are working well for developers, and help direct users to full app downloads to foster deeper engagement.”
