Google Limits New Gemini AI Features to 2026 Android Phones

Google's new Gemini Intelligence features will be available only on Android devices with the most advanced capabilities, according to specialists who reviewed the requirements. The limitation means that 2026 smartphone models will be required, including Google's Pixel 10 series and Samsung's Galaxy S26 series.

Even Samsung's Galaxy S25 series, released earlier this year, will not support the full set of features. The requirements also include at least five Android OS upgrades and six years of quarterly security patches. Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 is expected to be among the first devices to launch the new features later this year.

Google said Gemini Intelligence has been built with security and privacy at its center. The company outlined three core principles: explicit user control, comprehensive data protection and operational transparency. Users will have granular authority to opt in and out of entire features or disable specific components at any time.

Google stated that this approach ensures AI assistance feels like a helpful partner rather than an intrusive presence. The features focus on automating tasks. Such capabilities carry inherent risks that the company said it has addressed through its privacy framework.

Specialists reported that the requirements list effectively restricts access to only the newest hardware. This affects hundreds of millions of existing Android smartphone owners who will not receive the upgrade on their current devices. Samsung phones are slated to receive the features first among third-party manufacturers.

However, even some recent high-end Samsung models fall short of the specified capabilities.