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What you need to know
Android 15 has implemented a new storage requirement, mandating that devices must have at least 32GB of onboard storage to comply with Google Mobile Services (GMS) licensing. While it is technically possible for devices with less than 32GB to run AOSP (Android Open Source Project) builds of the operating system, those looking to utilize the full range of Google services will need to meet the new standard. In addition, smartphones equipped with 3GB of RAM or less are now required to operate using Android Go Edition.
Historically, Android has maintained relatively low system requirements, especially when compared to the advanced features of high-end smartphones. Nonetheless, these requirements do evolve over time, and the latest version, Android 15, marks an increase in both storage and memory specifications. According to findings from Android Authority, Google has raised the minimum storage requirement for devices to 32GB, which has implications for new and existing devices seeking to upgrade to this version.
This increase reflects the growing size of Android system updates and the increasing demand for storage space due to the size of applications. Users may quickly find that, after installing the OS and a selection of apps, storage can be easily depleted on devices with only 16GB of available space. As a result, Android 14 will be the last version capable of running on devices that feature just 16GB of storage. While devices with this limited storage capacity are less common now, some budget models do still exist, especially those that feature expandable storage options.
As part of the new requirements, it is stipulated that 75% of the device’s total storage must be devoted to the main Android data partition, which includes the operating system, applications, and user files. However, budget devices can still run Android 15 using the AOSP version if they fall short of the 32GB minimum.
It’s noteworthy that without meeting the new storage standards, critical Google services may not be available on those devices, significantly hampering their usability. A GMS license is essential for accessing vital apps like the Google Play Store and Google Play Services, which underline the importance of compliance with these new storage requirements.
The threshold has risen from the previous 16GB requirement set for Android 14 and follows a gradual increase since Android 12, which needed only 8GB. Throughout these iterations, the guideline concerning the allocation of 75% of storage capacity to the main data partition has remained consistent.
In addition to the storage upgrades, devices running Android 15 must support Vulkan 1.3 graphics and ANGLE (Almost Native Graphics Layer Engine) libraries, unless they are using the Android Go Edition optimized for less powerful devices. This change coincides with Google’s declaration of Vulkan as the official graphics API for Android platforms.
The adjustments also stipulate that devices with 3GB of RAM or less must operate on Android Go Edition, a change from the previous limit of 2GB. The base requirement of 2GB for GMS licensing stays the same, offering some continuity amidst the new changes.
Looking ahead, starting with Android 16, ANGLE libraries will be required to be enabled by default on devices. The specifics regarding any additional hardware requirements for the next version of Android remain uncertain at this time.
Source
www.androidcentral.com