Google I/O is only a couple weeks away, however in line with a semi-recent custom, the parents over in Mountain View are kicking issues off early by reside streaming the Android Present: I/O Version on Could 12 at 1PM ET/10 AM PT.
Whereas Google hasn’t launched many particulars about what it is planning to indicate off, the corporate says 2026 “goes to be one of many largest years for Android but.” Presently, we’re anticipating to listen to extra in regards to the subsequent massive replace to Android (model 17) together with some AI upgrades and perhaps even some peaks at upcoming {hardware}. Gemini and agentic AI is anticipated to be a serious theme for this 12 months (although Google might save a lot of that information for I/O correct) whereas rumors counsel we may see new options like the flexibility to remap gaming controllers and working apps in bubbles for improved multitasking. There has additionally been some main rumblings about combining Android and ChromeOS right into a single unified platform.
Moreover, after revealing Android XR at I/O final 12 months, I am hoping to listen to much more information about Google’s upcoming batch of smartglasses. The corporate has already introduced partnerships with current eyewear makers together with Warby Parker and Light Monster, and after getting an opportunity to check out a few of Google’s early reference designs, I feel 2026 is shaping as much as be a breakout 12 months for smartglasses as a complete. Alternatively, for anybody who’s getting fed up with an excessive amount of AI information, the Android Present could possibly be a welcome breakout for individuals who care extra about {hardware} and software program than machine studying.
The perfect half is that Google is streaming the occasion without spending a dime on YouTube and the principle Android homepage. So put a reminder in your calendar and examine again subsequent week for all of our in-depth protection of all the things Android on Could 12.
