Google Explains 'AICore': Why Your Android Phone Temporarily Uses Up to 11GB Storage for AI Features

Many Android users have likely noticed a significant storage drain caused by a mysterious app named "AICore," which can consume between 7 to 11GB of space. The question on everyone's mind has been its purpose and whether it can be safely removed. Google has now stepped in to clarify the situation, assuring users that this storage consumption is normal and temporary, and that the space will be recovered automatically.

According to Google, AICore is the backbone of generative AI capabilities on Android devices. It enables on-device language models, allowing for features like intelligent text correction, voice-to-text transcription, scam detection, smart replies, meeting summaries, and translation, all without requiring an internet connection. This focus on on-device processing enhances speed and protects user privacy, making AICore a crucial component for modern smartphone functionality.

The substantial storage usage occurs during updates to the AI models. Google explains that the system temporarily retains both old and new versions to ensure stability and prevent bugs. This process, which can last up to three days, ensures that if a new version encounters issues, the device can seamlessly revert to the previous one without needing to re-download large data files. Once the new AI model is stable, the system automatically clears the excess data, freeing up the occupied space. Liberty Times, reporting from Taiwan, highlights that while users concerned about storage limitations on devices with 128GB capacity might find this usage burdensome, Google advises that if storage is sufficient, it's best to leave AICore undisturbed to maintain the integrity and functionality of these advanced AI features.