Storage space has long been a major limitation for entry-level Android smartphones. Users often struggle with low internal memory, especially on budget devices with just 16GB of storage. But now, Google is taking a big step to fix this issue with a significant change in Android 15’s certification requirements.
Google Updates Storage Requirement for Android 15
According to a report by Android Authority, Google has increased the minimum internal storage requirement for Android phones that want to include Google Mobile Services (GMS). Starting with Android 15, all such devices must have at least 32GB of internal storage.
Previously, the minimum requirement was 16GB, which was introduced during Android 13. This upgrade is a major move, aimed at improving the experience for users of budget-friendly smartphones.
How Much Space Will Be Available to Users?
Google isn’t just increasing the storage minimum — it also specifies how it must be used. At least 75% of the total 32GB storage must be dedicated to the data partition, which includes:
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System apps
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App data
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System files
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User files and content
This ensures that users get usable space for personal data, rather than having most of it consumed by system files.
Why This Matters for Budget Android Phones
Many Android budget phones across the globe still ship with limited memory. The increase to 32GB will:
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Improve app performance
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Reduce storage-related warnings
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Give users more room for photos, videos, and downloads
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Ensure smoother long-term usage
Although 32GB isn’t massive, it is a meaningful bump over 16GB and will greatly benefit users in the entry-level smartphone segment.
Only Applies to Phones with Google Services
It’s important to note: this new rule applies only to smartphones that wish to be certified with Google’s Android Services (like the Google Play Store, Gmail, YouTube, etc.).
Devices based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) can still operate without meeting this requirement — but they won’t have access to Google’s core apps and services.
Other Android 15 Requirements You Should Know
Besides storage, Android 15 brings a few other important changes:
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Emergency Contact Sharing: Cellular phones running Android 15 must allow sharing of emergency contact data during an emergency call via Android Emergency Location Service (ELS).
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Graphics Support: Devices must support Vulkan 1.3 or higher for better graphical performance.
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Performance Profiles: Compliance with Android Baseline Profile 2022 and support for the new Welcome Profile is now mandatory.
✅ Did You Know?
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Android 15 minimum storage will ensure smoother performance even on cheap Android phones.
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Google Play-certified devices now need double the storage compared to Android 13.
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OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) must now follow stricter standards to offer Google apps on their phones.
