It is that time of the year when Google and Apple, two of the biggest tech outfits in the world, take to the stage and enthrall us with their latest software and AI advancements. While Apple’s WWDC is scheduled for June, Google will be the first to reveal its key announcements for 2025 at the I/O event in May. Google I/O 2025 will take place over 2 days – May 20 and 21. Here is what you can expect from the event.
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In This Article
Android 16
Last year, Android 15’s rollout was preceded by the launch of the Pixel 9 series. Google plans to course-correct this year by revealing the new Android 16 OS at its I/O event on May 20. The new Pixel 10 series smartphones will run the OS out of the box. So far, Google has dropped 2 Developer Previews and 4 Beta versions of its upcoming mobile OS. The new Android 16 will come with features like Live Updates, APV codec support, size adaptability for apps, predictive back, vertical text support, new Gemini extensions, a customisable measurement system, and more.
Android XR
Google announced the operating system for its extended reality (XR) headsets in December 2024. Since then, there have been very few meaningful updates, but what we do know for sure is that Google plans to launch its debut Android XR-powered headset in 2025. Android XR is a result of a co-operated effort among Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm, collectively known as Project Moohan. The I/O event would be the perfect opportunity to showcase the new OS platform that serves as a direct rival to Apple’s visionOS. One of the great things about Android XR is that it will support all the apps available on the Google Play Store.
Project Astra
Last year, Google announced Project Astra at I/O 2024. A DeepMind initiative, Project Astra will help Gemini interact with the real world through visual and vocal input. We got a taste of that when Google added visual input to Gemini Live earlier this year. This feature was later rolled out to all Android users for free. It allows users to turn on their phone’s camera while talking to Gemini. The AI assistant obtains visual cues from the scene in front of you and comes up with relevant responses.
New Pixel devices?
Historically, Google has used I/O as the launch stage for its affordable Pixel A series smartphones. However, this year, the Pixel 9a got an early release. With no immediate releases left to promote, Google could give us a sneak peek of the Pixel 10 series. The new Tensor G5 chipset powering the Pixel 10 smartphones will ditch Samsung’s architecture and will be manufactured by TSMC. The entry-level variant in the series may also get a new telephoto lens in its camera array. After the design overhaul on Pixel 9, Google intends to keep the cosmetic changes on the Pixel 10 to a minimum.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is Google I/O 2025?
Google I/O 2025 is scheduled to take place on May 20 and 21, 2025.
Where can I watch Google I/O 2025?
You can watch the event on the official Google I/O 2025 website or Google’s YouTube channel.
Is Google I/O 2025 free to attend?
The I/O 2025 event is free for all attendees. However, in order to attend, you need to register your email at the official I/O website.
What can I expect from Google I/O this year?
This year, Google will reveal Android 16, Android XR, and Project Astra at its I/O event. It may also give a sneak peek of the new Pixel 10 series.
Where will Google I/O take place this year?
Google I/O will take place at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, this year.
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Final Thoughts
With a month to go for I/O 2025, Google may drop some information about the upcoming releases and announcements that it plans to reveal at the event. Think there’s a wild card in the works? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
