Google has just set new storage space minimums for installing the latest versions of Android. From now on, a minimum of 32GB of free space is recommended to be able to install the future Android 16, which automatically excludes the lowest-end models on the market.
According to Android Authority, Google is doubling its minimum storage requirements for Android devices. From now on, any smartphone (or tablet) wishing to obtain official certification for Android 15 will need to have at least 32GB of internal storage, as opposed to 16 GB previously.
The minimum RAM requirement is 4GB to install Android 15 and later versions. This requirement applies to all device manufacturers wishing to integrate Google services, such as the Play Store into their products. This decision aims to improve the user experience on entry-level devices, which often have limited space available after installing the system and pre-installed applications.
This means that several smartphone and tablet models, mainly in the entry-level tier, will not be authorized to install either Android 15 or Android 16.
Generally speaking, however, these announcements are not going to be a game changer, as the most recent versions of Android are usually reserved for the very latest models released on the market. Moreover, in 2025, it is rare to find smartphones on the market with such little storage space, as most of them, even in the low and mid-range, have at least 64 GB.
The most recent versions of Android not only offer new features, they also offer guarantees in terms of security. – AFP Relaxnews
