Android 15 Says Goodbye to 16GB Phones

Android devices with Google Play Store must now have at least 32GB of internal storage. This move aims to curb the issue of budget devices quickly running out of space.

The updated Google Mobile Services (GMS) agreement mandates a minimum of 32GB internal flash storage for Android 15 devices, with at least 75% allocated to the data partition. This applies to both new devices and those updating to Android 15. While few 16GB devices were likely to receive the Android 15 update, this rule definitively ends that possibility. Custom ROMs may still offer an alternative for some devices.

Device manufacturers need to meet Google's GMS requirements to include Google services like Gmail, Play Store, YouTube, etc. Since the Play Store is crucial for most Android devices globally, these requirements significantly impact the market. While the minimum storage is increased, Google isn't specifying the storage technology. Budget devices are likely to continue using eMMC flash memory.

The Growing Need for More Storage

Many flagship phones (Galaxy S25, Pixel 9, ASUS ROG Phone 9) now offer 128GB or more. Mid-range and budget options frequently include 128GB (Galaxy A35, Moto G Stylus 2025), but 64GB remains common in the low-end segment (Galaxy A15, Cricket Debut S3).

Devices with less than 32GB are becoming rare due to decreasing flash memory costs. However, some devices like Amazon Fire tablets (excluding the Play Store) still offer lower storage options.

Google's GMS agreement sets a minimum acceptable user experience. 16GB is simply insufficient in 2025, leaving little room for apps, games, and data after accounting for the operating system and updates. Limited storage also impacts performance due to frequent data redownloading.

The increased storage requirement only applies to Android 15 devices with the Play Store. Android 15 adoption is still ongoing, with the Samsung update currently paused.

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