Google is Killing Off Android Instant Apps Due to Low Usage

After nearly eight years, Google is saying goodbye to Android Instant Apps, a feature once introduced as a shortcut for users to try out apps without actually downloading them. 

The tech giant confirmed that support for the feature will officially end by December 2025, citing low user interest as the main reason.

What are Instant Apps?

When Android Instant Apps was launched back in 2017, the idea sounded futuristic. Imagine clicking a link and opening a part of an app instantly, no Play Store, no install, just straight into the experience. 

Whether it was a quick game demo or a shopping preview, users could test apps on the go.

Developers were encouraged to use the feature to showcase their apps and attract new users. But behind the scenes, it wasn’t that simple. 

Developers had to slice their apps into smaller modules, create deep links, and stay within size limits to meet Google’s technical requirements. While the feature had potential, it never really caught on.

Developers noticed the shutdown first

The first signs of the shutdown came from Android Studio itself. Developer Leon Omelan spotted a message warning that support for Instant Apps would disappear by December 2025. 

Not just the feature, but also the tools used to build and publish them will be removed from Android Studio’s upcoming updates.

Soon after, Google confirmed the news. Speaking to The Verge, Google spokesperson Nia Carter explained that “usage and engagement of Instant Apps have been low,” and developers are now leaning toward other tools for app discovery, such as AI-driven app highlights and simultaneous installs.

Why google is moving on

Google says the shift allows them to focus on what’s working better. Instead of spreading efforts across features with low traction, the company wants to double down on tools that bring real results for developers and users.

“Helping users discover and engage with full apps is where we see more success,” Nia added.

Is AI taking over

Instant Apps may be on their way out, but Google’s broader focus on AI is gaining speed. Its new AI-powered search feature, AI Overview, is now used by more than 1.5 billion people every month. 

Meanwhile, services like YouTube Premium and Google One continue to grow, with over 270 million paying users globally.

What this means for developers

Developers relying on Instant Apps will now need to pivot. Google is encouraging the use of other discovery tools, including AI-powered recommendations and features that guide users toward installing full apps from the start.

While it’s the end of the road for Instant Apps, it’s also a reminder that not every experimental feature sticks, even from a company as big as Google. In this case, users simply didn’t bite, and developers had little incentive to keep supporting the format.