Google has implemented significant changes to the minimum hardware specifications required for devices running Android 15, marking an important shift in the Android ecosystem. These new requirements aim to improve user experience on entry-level devices while potentially affecting which phones will be eligible for the latest Android update.
Storage Requirements Double for Android 15
Google has officially raised the minimum storage requirement for Android 15 devices from 16GB to 32GB, according to recently updated Google Mobile Services (GMS) requirements documentation. This change applies to both new devices shipping with Android 15 and existing devices receiving the update. Additionally, at least 75% of this storage must be allocated to the data partition, which is used for apps and user files. This marks the first increase in minimum storage requirements in several years, acknowledging that modern apps and system files require more space than ever before.
Android 15 Minimum Requirements
- Storage: 32GB minimum (up from 16GB)
- Storage allocation: 75% must be for data partition
- RAM requirements:
- 2GB RAM: Must use Android Go edition
- 3GB RAM: Must use Android Go edition (new requirement)
- 4GB RAM: Can optionally use Android Go edition
- New feature requirement: Emergency contact sharing capability
Impact on Budget Smartphones
This storage increase will primarily affect the most affordable segment of the Android market. While premium and mid-range devices typically offer 128GB or more storage, many ultra-budget phones have continued to ship with just 16GB. The new requirement should benefit consumers purchasing entry-level devices, as 16GB has become increasingly inadequate for modern app sizes and system requirements. However, this change could potentially lead to slight price increases for the most affordable Android phones as manufacturers adjust to the new specifications.
RAM Requirements and Android Go Edition
Along with storage changes, Google has also adjusted RAM requirements for Android 15. Devices with 2GB of RAM must continue to use Android Go edition, which is optimized for lower-spec hardware. What's new is that phones with 3GB of RAM will now also need to use Android Go edition with Android 15, whereas previously they could run the full version of Android. Additionally, manufacturers producing devices with 4GB of RAM now have the option to use Android Go edition, extending this option from the previous 3GB threshold with Android 14.
Emergency Contact Sharing Feature
Beyond hardware specifications, Android 15 introduces a new requirement for emergency services functionality. All devices running the new OS must allow users to share their emergency contacts during emergency calls. While this feature requires user opt-in, it provides a valuable safety enhancement by enabling emergency services to communicate with a user's designated contacts during critical situations.
Compliance and Exceptions
While technically manufacturers could still produce devices with less than 32GB of storage, doing so would mean losing access to Google Mobile Services, including critical components like the Google Play Store. Given the essential nature of these services for most Android users, it's unlikely many manufacturers will choose this path. Some existing 16GB devices that might have otherwise qualified for an Android update will now be unable to receive Android 15, though such devices typically receive limited update support anyway.
Market Perspective
These new requirements reflect the evolving nature of smartphone usage and app development. Even budget phones need sufficient resources to provide a satisfactory user experience in 2025. While 32GB still represents a modest amount of storage by current standards, it's a meaningful improvement that should help prevent consumers from purchasing devices that quickly become frustratingly restrictive due to storage limitations.