In the Android developer blog, Google confirms that Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro are the first Android phones that exclusively support 64-bit applications, and 32-bit applications are completely unavailable in the new phones. Prior to this, all Android devices that support 64-bit applications also supported traditional 32-bit applications.
Google explains that there are several benefits to abandoning support for 32-bit applications. It not only reduces memory usage, but also improves performance and security. Google expects devices that do not support 32-bit applications will become more common over time. Google has taken this move on the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro because it believes the Android ecosystem is ready for the transition.
According to Google, the reason for the faster speed is that 64-bit applications can access instructions and resources that 32-bit applications cannot use. Modern CPU can deliver up to 25% performance speed when abandoning 32-bit support. Additionally, this configuration can free up at least 150MB of memory, which is used regardless of whether the 32-bit application is running or not.
Google encourages developers to start testing applications and updates that are only available for 64-bit devices, and there are already developer tools available to test compatibility issues for new configurations.
Google reminds us that 32-bit applications can currently continue to serve Android Go, Android TV and Android Wear, and 32-bit ABI will continue to be supported.
