Google has set steep requirements for Android 17's marquee Gemini Intelligence feature.They rule out most existing phones, to the point where some of the company's own Pixel 9 devices might not support the agentic AI.A note on Google's product page reveals that you'll need a device with the "most advanced capabilities" to run the technology, according to .
You'll need a qualifying "flagship" chip, at least 12GB of RAM, and support for media features like HDR and spatial audio.Google also demands at least five years of OS updates, six years of quarterly security updates, and quality levels that will be more strictly enforced in 2027.Google Pixel 10 Brand Google SoC Google Tensor G5 See at Amazon $799 at Best Buy $799 at Google Store $799 at AT&T Expand Collapse More importantly, the device will have to support Google's latest small AI model, Gemini Nano v3.
That could rule out devices that might otherwise qualify, including most of the Pixel 9 family, Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 7, and the OnePlus 13.As a rule, most phones released before 2026 are currently ineligible.Gemini Nano v3 so far runs on most Pixel 10 models (not the 10a), Samsung's Galaxy S26 lineup, and the OnePlus 15 range.
While it's possible that some phones and tablets will receive v3 support, it's not guaranteed at this stage.has asked Google for comment and will let you know if we receive a response.Why are Gemini Intelligence system requirements so high? An advanced local AI model might be the explanation Gemini Intelligence is more than just a voice assistant.
As an AI agent, it can perform multi-step tasks that, in some cases, will require launching apps to perform tasks on your behalf, such as booking restaurants and creating custom widgets.For the feature to work quickly and reliably, Google will likely need to run a small but recent AI model like Gemini Nano v3 on-device.That demands large amounts of computing power and memory, and there are no guarantees that most devices (including lower-end 2026 phones) will pass muster.
Related RIP Chromebooks: Googlebooks are coming with Android and deep Gemini integration The next generation of Google laptops.Posts 1 By Joe Fedewa As such, you're most likely to see Gemini Intelligence on just a handful of devices early on, with brand new models most likely to get it first.Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8, both expected in July, might be the first.
We'd expect Google's own Pixel 11 to be next in line with a possible August premiere.Subscribe to our newsletter for device-compatibility clarity Make confident phone-buying choices: subscribe to our newsletter for focused coverage of which devices will support new Android AI features, clear compatibility guides, and practical analysis that helps you understand what matters when evaluating phones.Get Updates By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
You can unsubscribe anytime.Whatever the exact device roster looks like, Google is returning to the days when using major new software features frequently required new hardware, not just OS updates.Like it or not, you might have to buy a new phone to have Gemini Intelligence on tap.
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