Google is raising the minimum storage requirement for devices running Android 15. Phones and tablets will now need at least 32GB of internal storage to be compatible with the new operating system. This means that devices with only 16GB of storage will not be able to run Android 15, even if they meet other technical requirements. While Android 14 still works with 16GB of storage, Android 15 demands more. Out of the required 32GB, 75% must be used for the data partition, which includes system files, pre-installed apps, and app data.
Although Google cannot legally stop manufacturers from making devices with less than 32GB if they use the open-source version of Android (AOSP), those devices won’t support the official Android 15 update.
Google likely made this change to improve the performance and user experience on lower-end devices, which are popular in many parts of the world. However, Google hasn’t specified what type of storage (e.g., slower eMMC vs. faster UFS) is needed.
Even if a device meets the new 32GB minimum, using slower storage could still lead to poor performance. In addition to the storage upgrade, Android 15 will also require features like sharing emergency contact data during emergency calls.
