Reduce uninstalls for your app with auto-archive

Posted by Chang Liu and Lidia Gaymond, Product Managers, Google Play

Did you know that one of the main reasons users uninstall apps is to free up space? Today, whenever users try to install a new app on a nearly-full device, they see a dialog that allows them to manually uninstall the app to make room. However, sometimes uninstalling a whole app, including all of the user’s app data just isn’t necessary.

To reduce unnecessary uninstalls and help users successfully install new apps, we are introducing a new feature: auto-archive. Once a user opts in, auto-archive can help them automatically free up to nearly 60% of an app’s storage space, without removing the app presence or users’ data from the device.

What is auto-archive?

Archived apps are visually indicated with cloud icons and remain on the user's device.

Auto-archive is a new feature that allows users to free up space on their device without the need to completely uninstall an app. Once the user opts in, infrequently used apps will be partly removed from the device to save space, whilst the app icon and the user’s personal app data will be preserved. When the user wants to start using the app again, they can simply tap to re-download it and pick up where they left off (as long as the app is still available on Google Play).

Eligibility of auto-archive

Auto-archive is only available for developers using the App Bundle to publish their apps. If your app supports archiving, users will be less likely to see it surfaced amongst uninstall suggestions.

How it works

Users can opt into auto-archive in a few steps.

1. The user tries to install a new app when the device is out of storage.
2. A pop-up window appears asking if the user wants to enable auto-archive.
3. If the user opts in, unused apps on the user's device will be auto-archived to free up enough space for a new app request.

Auto-archive is an easy way for users to manage their device storage, and a great way for developers to lower the likelihood of their apps being uninstalled.