Google has announced updated hardware requirements for Android smartphones, effective from Android 15, aimed at enhancing performance and user experience. The new mandates include a minimum of 32GB internal storage and stricter RAM specifications for devices running Google’s operating system.
Key Changes in Storage Requirements
Smartphones shipping with Android 15 must feature at least 32GB of internal storage, with 75% of this allocated to the data partition. This partition is essential for storing user apps, files, and preinstalled system apps. Devices with less than 32GB storage will not qualify for Google Mobile Services (GMS), which includes proprietary apps like the Play Store. This marks a significant increase from the previous 16GB requirement introduced with Android 13.
RAM Specifications
Google has also revised its RAM requirements. Devices with 2GB or 3GB of RAM must run the Android Go Edition, optimized for entry-level phones. Phones with less than 2GB RAM are ineligible for GMS certification. While devices with 4GB RAM can run full Android 15, starting with Android 16, they will need to switch to the Android Go Edition. This effectively sets a minimum RAM requirement of 6GB for running the full version of Android in future updates.
Additional Features
Android 15 introduces new functionalities, such as emergency contact sharing during distress calls via the Emergency Location Service. This feature allows users to opt-in to share their emergency contacts and location data with emergency services, ensuring privacy through clear disclosures.
These updates reflect Google’s commitment to improving device performance, user safety, and privacy standards. By enforcing higher hardware baselines, Google aims to provide a smoother and more reliable experience for Android users, particularly on budget devices.
