RetroArch [Android] Target Android 16

RetroArch should target Android 16. This requires some changes.

Mar 09 '25 10:03 ghost

So how do I get it on Android 16? I have a pixel 9 pro. Running it on everything else, but it says on Android 16 that it was made for older versions. I downloaded it, but it won't open.

Dec 08 '25 23:12 phillipdaughertysr-create

You should be able to tell it to "install anyway" from the dialog that pops up to warn you.

Dec 09 '25 05:12 hizzlekizzle

Yes I have the app but it doesn't open

Dec 09 '25 05:12 phillipdaughertysr-create

@phillipdaughertysr-create In order to optimize the resolution of this issue, please provide some details. For instance, try to provide some log. Which version did you try to install ? Buildbot ? F-Droid ?

Might be related to #17014

Thank you.

Dec 09 '25 13:12 gouchi

So how do I get it on Android 16? I have a pixel 9 pro. Running it on everything else, but it says on Android 16 that it was made for older versions. I downloaded it, but it won't open.

As described in

https://github.com/libretro/RetroArch/issues/17014

"install anyway" didn't work for me. This worked for me:

Disable Google Play Protect on Android devices blocking APK installations, open the Play Store app first. Tap your profile icon, select Play Protect, then tap the gear icon in settings and toggle off "Scan apps with Play Protect" to confirm.
Install the apk.
Re-enable Play Protect immediately after installation, as it protects against malware from untrusted APKs—only sideload from verified sources.

Dec 14 '25 23:12 davidhedlund

@phillipdaughertysr-create It's interesting to note that you receive the "This app was built for an older version of Android" message even if you are using the current Android version.

Dec 15 '25 00:12 davidhedlund