In just a week, on May 20, 2025, Google's annual developer conference, known as Google I/O, is set to commence. This event is arguably the most significant on Google’s calendar, providing a comprehensive look at the projects and innovations the tech giant has been working on over the past year. With various rumors circulating and official hints dropped by Google, I/O 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling tech keynotes in recent history.
For the first time, Google has introduced a dedicated Android showcase a week prior to I/O. This event took place on May 13, where attendees could catch up on all the announcements made during the Android Show. If you missed it, our live blog is available to give you a detailed overview of how everything unfolded. With the Android Show behind us, all eyes now turn toward the main event, I/O, where the spotlight will likely be on artificial intelligence (AI).
We’ve compiled the most credible reports and leaks to provide an insightful roundup of what to expect at I/O 2025. While many of the Android-related announcements have already been revealed, there remains a possibility that Google will unveil additional details regarding its mobile platform next week. To catch all the action live from the comfort of your home, check out our article on how to watch the Google I/O 2025 keynote. We’ll also be liveblogging the event, so for real-time updates, visit Engadget.
Some of the most memorable moments from past I/O events have stemmed from Android updates, particularly when Dave Burke took the stage to unveil the latest in Android development. However, in recent years, Android has not received much attention during the annual conference. This is set to change, thanks to the dedicated showcase during the recent Android Show.
During the presentation, Sameer Samat, the President of the Android Ecosystem, introduced the new Material 3 Expressive design. This design approach confirmed some features that had previously leaked, such as the Ongoing notifications bar. Notably, Material 3 Expressive will also make its way to Wear OS 6, expanding the capabilities of the Gemini AI across various platforms, including Android Auto and Google TV.
Android 16 will include several new features, such as enhanced scam detection and a refined Find Hub that will support satellite connectivity later this year. Google has confirmed that the new operating system will launch before the second half of 2025, with portions of Android 16 scheduled to be available next month for Pixel devices.
Remember the ambitious projects like Google Glass and Daydream? After several attempts at expanding into the XR space, Google is ready to unveil Android XR, which was previewed late last year. This time, the integration of Gemini AI models is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the platform.
Google is reportedly collaborating with Samsung on a headset codenamed Project Moohan, which may debut at I/O. As the anticipation builds, it is likely that Google will share more about Android XR and the partners involved in this initiative during the conference.
With the recent separation of Android into its own showcase, we can expect an unprecedented focus on AI-related announcements at I/O this year. While Google has kept details under wraps, we anticipate updates on features like AI Overviews and AI Mode. Additionally, Google may provide insights into Project Mariner, a web-surfing agent introduced at I/O 2024.
Continuing with the theme of AI, Project Astra was a standout demo from last year’s I/O, showcasing advanced voice assistant capabilities alongside image recognition features. Google aims to develop Project Astra into a genuinely useful artificial assistant, and with the buzz it generated, we can expect an update during I/O 2025.
Reports suggest that Google may be preparing to launch its own version of Pinterest at I/O. This new tool, described by some as reminiscent of Cosmos, would allow users to save and curate content from across the internet. It’s unclear whether this feature will be integrated into Google Search or exist as a standalone product, but we will have to wait for I/O to learn more.
Additionally, Wear OS, which received minimal attention in last year’s keynote, is set to see updates with Wear OS 6, featuring the new Material 3 Expressive design. Will we hear more about it at I/O? Only time will tell.
Since its release in 2023, Google’s NotebookLM has been available on desktop, utilizing machine learning for features like automated summaries. Based on recent listings, a mobile version of the service is expected to launch on the first day of I/O 2025.
Despite Google’s history of leaks, there’s always the chance of unexpected announcements. For the most accurate and timely information, visit Engadget on May 20 and 21 for comprehensive coverage, live updates, and expert analysis.
Stay tuned for additional updates as we get closer to the event!
