The IMA Android version 3.35.1 introduces the ImaSdkFactory.initialize() method, which initiates the loading of essential SDK resources before the first ad request, resulting in quicker load times. This enhancement can reduce ad buffering and optimize ad impressions and monetization. The loading process may take several seconds, depending on the device.
It is advised to call initialize() early in the app's lifecycle to minimize the time to the first frame for pre-roll ads, thereby reducing user wait times and enhancing monetization potential. Applications that utilize these improvements can expect an average reduction of 0.25 to 0.5 seconds in time to the first frame, with TV implementations seeing improvements of up to five seconds.
The ImaSdkFactory.initialize() method accepts an ImaSdkSettings instance, which should align with the settings used for creating any AdsLoader instances in the app. For further details on client-side and DAI optimizations, refer to the documentation on optimizing IMA load time. For inquiries, users can contact the IMA technical forum.
