WEB DESK: The Android community is abuzz with Google’s new Gemini Intelligence platform, which was prominently showcased at this week’s Android Show. The platform is already associated with several upcoming premium foldables and flagship smartphones. However, not all high-end Android devices will be eligible to run it. Interestingly, certain recent foldable models from Google and Samsung may also be left out.
According to Google’s specifications, Gemi ni Intelligence is not merely a software upgrade for existing devices. The company appears to be setting stricter hardware benchmarks and emphasizing long-term software support. To qualify, a device must feature a flagship processor, a minimum of 12GB of RAM, support for AI Core, and Gemini Nano v3 or higher. This criterion immediately disqualifies some current-generation models.
Google’s requirements extend beyond raw processing power. Devices need to guarantee at least five Android OS updates and six years of security patches, alongside standards aimed at system stability and crash prevention. While many flagship phones already offer extended software support, the real challenge lies in the Gemini Nano version. Reports suggest that models like the Pixel 9 series and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 are still utilizing Gemini Nano v2 firmware, preventing them from qualifying for Gemini Intelligence at present.
The platform’s capabilities are expected to expand significantly with Android flagships launching in 2026, including the Pixel 10 series and Oppo Find X9 lineup, which are apparently built with these advanced AI hardware requirements from the start.
However, some uncertainty remains. Google’s official documentation mentions support for the Gemini Nano Prompt API but does not explicitly confirm whether older devices will be permanently excluded. There’s still a possibility that certain phones could gain compatibility later through software updates or backend modifications.
One key aspect is Google’s stipulation of a minimum of 12GB RAM for Gemini Intelligence. This is a substantial requirement, especially since leaks indicate that the upcoming Pixel 11 might only feature 8GB of RAM. If these leaks are correct, the new AI hardware prerequisites could have broader implications beyond RAM capacity.
It would be unusual for Google to heavily promote advanced on-device AI features while scaling back on memory in its flagship devices. Currently, Google has announced that Gemini Intelligence will first roll out on Pixel and Samsung Galaxy devices later this year.
