Google's Gemini Intelligence will demand 12GB of RAM when it arrives in 2026. That is 50% more than Apple Intelligence's 8GB minimum. The requirement means many current flagship phones won't run the on-device AI features.
Gemini Nano v3 demands 12GB RAM
The software suite was announced at Google I/O 2026. It relies on Gemini Nano v3 and Android AICore. Phones need at least 12GB of RAM to handle the local processing load.
- Minimum RAM for Gemini Intelligence: 12GB
- Minimum RAM for Apple Intelligence: 8GB
- Minimum RAM for Android services: 6GB
Eligible devices are almost all 2026 models. The list includes the Pixel 10 series, Galaxy S26 series, OnePlus 15, and others. Older flagships like the Pixel 9 and Galaxy S25 are locked out because they lack the required RAM and Nano v3 support.
Apple Intelligence works with 8GB
Apple Intelligence, by contrast, works on iPhone 15 Pro and later models with 8GB of RAM. For most users, 8GB remains sufficient for everyday tasks. The 12GB requirement is specifically for on-device AI features.
Google's minimum RAM for full Android services is now 6GB. The jump to 12GB for Gemini Intelligence is a significant step. Whether Google will push Nano v3 to some 2025 devices via software update remains unconfirmed.
The 12GB requirement effectively sets a new baseline for premium Android phones in 2026. Buyers eyeing future AI features should prioritize models with at least 12GB of RAM.
Source: GIZMOCHINA
