To begin with, fully compiled machine code will usually consume more storage space than that of bytecode. This is because each symbol in bytecode is representative of several instructions in machine code. Of course, the increase in size isn't going to be particularly significant, not usually more than 10%-20% larger. That might sound like a lot when APKs can get pretty large, but the executable code only makes up a fraction of the size in most apps. For example, the latest Google+ APK with the new video editing features is 28.3 MB, but the code is only 6.9 MB. The other likely notable drawback will come in the form of a longer install time for apps - the side effect of performing the AOT compilation. How much longer? Well, it depends on the app; small utilities probably won't even be noticed, but the more complex apps like Facebook and Google+ are going to keep you waiting. A few apps at a time probably won't bother you, but converting more than 100 apps when you first switch to ART is a serious test of patience. This isn't entirely bad, as it allows the AOT compiler to work a little harder to find even more optimizations than the JIT compiler ever had the opportunity to look for. All in all, these are sacrifices I'm perfectly happy to make if it will bring an otherwise more fluid experience and increased battery life.