Google's Gemini AI Excludes Latest Flagships: Which Devices Qualify?
Google recently unveiled its ambitious Gemini Intelligence platform, designed to bring advanced on-device AI capabilities to Android devices. However, the excitement is tempered by strict hardware requirements that surprisingly exclude some of the latest flagship models, including the upcoming Pixel 9 and Galaxy Z Fold 7. This Q&A breaks down the key details, what the requirements are, and which devices made the cut.
What exactly is Gemini Intelligence and why does it need such high specs?
Gemini Intelligence is Google's next-generation AI suite that runs directly on your phone, handling tasks like real-time translation, smart photo editing, and context-aware voice assistance without relying on cloud servers. To deliver this performance, the on-device models require substantial computational power and memory. Specifically, the neural processing unit (NPU) and random-access memory (RAM) must meet a certain threshold. Google has set a minimum of 12GB of RAM and a compatible NPU that can handle large language models efficiently. This ensures smooth AI operations but also narrows the pool of compatible devices significantly.
Why won't the Pixel 9 support Gemini Intelligence?
Despite being a Google flagship, the Pixel 9 is expected to feature 8GB of RAM, according to early leaks and industry speculation. That's 4GB short of the 12GB minimum required by Gemini Intelligence. Even though the Pixel 9 will likely have a capable Tensor chip, the RAM limitation is a deal-breaker. Google's own AI framework depends heavily on large in-memory models, and 8GB simply can't allocate enough space for both the operating system and the AI workloads without crippling performance. This is a surprising move from Google, as it effectively cuts off its own upcoming premium phone from its most advanced AI features.
What about the Galaxy Z Fold 7? Will it also be excluded?
Yes, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is also unlikely to support Gemini Intelligence at launch. Reports indicate that Samsung's next-generation foldable will ship with 8GB of RAM as standard, mirroring the Pixel 9's configuration. While the Fold series typically offers more RAM on higher-tier models, the base configuration will not meet the 12GB requirement. Additionally, Samsung's Exynos or Snapdragon chips may lack the specific NPU optimizations that Google's AI demands. This means that even a premium foldable that costs upwards of $1,800 may not get the full Gemini experience out of the box, forcing users to consider alternatives or wait for future updates.
What is the one spec causing this cutoff?
The single most critical spec is RAM capacity. Google has set a hard floor of 12GB for devices to run Gemini Intelligence effectively. While other factors like NPU architecture and storage speed matter, RAM is the primary gatekeeper. The reasoning is straightforward: large language models require a significant chunk of memory to operate in real-time. With 8GB, the phone would have to constantly swap AI data to slower storage, resulting in lag and poor user experience. By drawing a line at 12GB, Google ensures that only devices with ample headroom can deliver the promised responsiveness. This choice effectively excludes many mid-range and even some high-end phones from 2024 and 2025.
Are there any workarounds for Pixel 9 or Galaxy Z Fold 7 users?
Unfortunately, no official workarounds exist. Since the requirement is hardware-based—RAM is soldered onto the motherboard—users cannot upgrade it. However, Google may offer a cloud-streamed version of Gemini Intelligence for devices with less RAM, similar to how some AI features run on servers for older phones. Alternatively, manufacturers could update their devices to use smaller AI models (a “lite” version) that are less memory-intensive. But as of now, Google has not announced such options. So if you're planning to buy a Pixel 9 or Galaxy Z Fold 7, you might have to rely on Google Assistant's current capabilities rather than the new Gemini-powered features.
Which devices currently meet the Gemini Intelligence requirements?
As of the announcement, only a handful of devices qualify. These include the Google Pixel 8 Pro (12GB RAM), the Galaxy S24 Ultra (12GB RAM), and the OnePlus 12 (up to 16GB RAM). The Xiaomi 14 Pro with 12GB or more also makes the list. In general, any Android phone with at least 12GB of RAM and a compatible NPU (typically from Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 9300) is eligible. Phones launched before 2024 with 8GB or 6GB RAM are automatically excluded, regardless of their CPU power. Google has published a detailed list on its developer site for manufacturers to certify.
How does this requirement compare to Google's previous AI efforts?
Earlier Google AI features, such as Live Caption or Google Photos smart suggestions, had much lower spec demands. For instance, Live Caption only needed 2GB of RAM and ran on modest processors. The jump to Gemini Intelligence is dramatic because it uses large on-device language models, a shift from the lightweight models of the past. This is similar to Apple's strategy with Apple Intelligence, which requires at least 8GB RAM on iPhones. However, Google is pushing the bar even higher to 12GB, likely because its models are more complex or because it wants to future-proof the experience. This may alienate some users but promises a more powerful and private AI ecosystem in the long run.
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