Google has officially revised the minimum hardware requirements for devices running Android 15, introducing higher thresholds for both storage and RAM. The changes, aimed at improving performance and user experience, will particularly affect entry-level and budget smartphones.
Storage: Minimum Now 32GB
With Android 15, devices must have at least 32GB of internal storage to qualify for Google Mobile Services (GMS) certification — a sharp jump from the 16GB minimum seen in Android 13 and 14. Additionally, 75% of the total storage must be allocated to the data partition, which includes user apps, system apps, and personal files. Devices failing to meet these conditions will not be eligible for Android 15 updates and cannot include essential apps like the Google Play Store.
RAM: Higher Thresholds and Expanded Android Go Usage
Google has also revised RAM guidelines. Devices with 2GB or 3GB of RAM must now run Android Go Edition, the lightweight version of Android optimized for lower-end hardware. Looking ahead, Android 16 will extend this requirement to devices with 4GB of RAM, effectively making 6GB the new minimum for full Android functionality.
While manufacturers can still release devices with lower specs using the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), these devices will lack GMS support, significantly limiting access to Google’s core app ecosystem.
Safety Feature: Emergency Contact Sharing
Android 15 also introduces a new safety feature requiring all certified devices to support the sharing of emergency contact information with responders during emergency calls. This addition aims to enhance user safety by making critical health and personal information readily available when needed most.
What This Means for Users and Manufacturers
These updated requirements reflect Google’s intent to standardize performance levels and reduce fragmentation across Android devices. For users, this could lead to faster, more reliable smartphones — even in the midrange category. For manufacturers, however, especially those focused on budget markets, it means tighter constraints and possibly higher production costs.
The changes are expected to influence both hardware development and software optimization as Android 15 begins rolling out later this year.