Google is increasing the maximum size of Android application packages (APK) from 50MB to 100MB, in order to “support the growing number of developers who are building richer apps and games on Google Play”.

Developers can publish APKs up to 100 MB in size, and users will see a warning only when the app exceeds this and makes use of expansion files.

Like Apple, Google lets developers use expansion files capped at 4 GB.

“We understand that developers are challenged with delivering a delightful user experience that maximises the hardware of the device, while also ensuring that their users can download, install, and open the app as quickly as possible,” Google said on its Android developers blog.

“It’s a tough balance to strike, especially when you’re targeting diverse global audiences,” it added.

But it also  warned developers that just because they can make their app bigger, doesn’t mean they always should.

Mobile data connectivity, data caps, app performance and install time are all factors to keep in mind.

The update will be made available for the Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich version or higher.