Solved: “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” Error – A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of seeing the frustrating error message “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” even after updating your app to API level 34? You’re not alone! This error has been plaguing Android developers for quite some time, but fear not, dear reader, for we’ve got the solution right here.

What’s causing this error?

The error message “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” typically appears when your app’s targetSdkVersion is set to an older API level than the minimum required by Google Play Store. Starting from November 2022, Google requires apps to target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher to ensure they’re compatible with the latest Android security patches and features.

But I’ve already updated my app to API level 34!

Yes, you might have updated your app’s targetSdkVersion to 34, but there are other factors at play. Let’s dive deeper and explore the possible causes behind this error.

Troubleshooting Steps

Follow these steps to resolve the “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” error:

1. Check your app’s targetSdkVersion

   Make sure your app’s targetSdkVersion is set to 34 or higher in the build.gradle file:

   <android>
     defaultConfig {
       applicationId "com.example.app"
       minSdkVersion 21
       targetSdkVersion 34
       versionCode 1
       versionName "1.0"
     }
   </android>

2. Verify your app’s compileSdkVersion

   Ensure your app’s compileSdkVersion is also set to 34 or higher in the build.gradle file:

   <android>
     compileSdkVersion 34
     buildToolsVersion "30.0.3"
   </android>

3. Update your Android Gradle Plugin

   Update your Android Gradle Plugin to the latest version (7.3.1 or higher) in the build.gradle file:

   classpath 'com.android.tools.build:gradle:7.3.1'

4. Check for third-party library issues

   Some third-party libraries might be using older API levels. Make sure to update these libraries to the latest versions:

   • Check the library’s documentation for API level requirements.
   • Update the library version in your build.gradle file.

5. Review your app’s AndroidManifest.xml

   Verify that your app’s AndroidManifest.xml file doesn’t contain any <uses-sdk> tags with an older API level:

   <?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
   <manifest xmlns:android="http://schemas.android.com/apk/res/android"
       package="com.example.app">
     <application
       ...>
     </application>
   </manifest>

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Be aware of these common mistakes that might lead to the “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” error:

• Inconsistent API levels: Ensure that your targetSdkVersion, compileSdkVersion, and minSdkVersion are consistent across your app’s modules.
• Outdated dependencies: Keep your dependencies, including Android Gradle Plugin, up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.
• Ignored warnings: Don’t ignore warnings and errors during the build process, as they might indicate underlying issues that can cause the error.

Additional Tips and Best Practices

To avoid similar errors in the future, follow these best practices:

• Regularly update your app’s dependencies: Keep your dependencies, including Android Gradle Plugin, up-to-date to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
• Use the latest Android SDK tools: Ensure you’re using the latest Android SDK tools and plugins to take advantage of new features and security enhancements.
• Test your app on multiple Android versions: Test your app on multiple Android versions to ensure compatibility and catch potential issues early.
• Monitor your app’s performance and crashes: Use tools like Android Studio’s built-in debugging tools, Crashlytics, or Firebase Crash Reporting to monitor your app’s performance and crashes.

Conclusion

The “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” error can be frustrating, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve it and ensure your app is compatible with the latest Android versions. Remember to stay vigilant, update your dependencies regularly, and test your app thoroughly to avoid similar issues in the future.

API Level	Android Version
34	Android 14
33	Android 13
32	Android 12L
31	Android 12

By targeting Android 14 (API level 34) or higher, you’ll ensure your app takes advantage of the latest security patches, features, and performance enhancements. Happy coding!

Frequently Asked Question

Are you tired of seeing the dreaded “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” warning even after updating to API level 34? Worry not, dear developer, for we’ve got the answers to your burning questions!

Hope these answers helped you resolve the “App must target Android 14 (API level 34) or higher” warning and got your app ready for the latest Android version!