It’s almost that time again, folks: we’re about to learn about some of Google’s big ideas for the coming year. . Most of the big news will come from the May 14 keynote, which will almost certainly tell us more about Android 15 and a slew of AI updates.
There are sure to be some surprises, though we’ll have to wait until fall to get the full lowdown on the company’s latest flagship hardware.
As usual, the rumor mill has been churning with a number of reports highlighting what Google might discuss at I/O. To that end, here’s what to expect from the Google I/O 2024 keynote:
Android 15
I/O is first and foremost a developer conference. This always gives Google third-party developers full information on the next major version of Android so they can start working on apps or modify their existing products.
The first beta versions of Android 15 are now open. between updated Privacy Sandbox, partial screen sharing (so you can record or share a specific app window instead of the entire screen), and to free up space. There’s also improved satellite connectivity, additional in-app camera controls and a new power efficiency mode.
However, Google is saving most of its Android 15 announcements for I/O. The company has confirmed that satellite messaging is coming to Android, and we can learn more about how it works. Lock screen widgets can be the focus for tablets, while Google can put the “At a Glance” widget in charge for phones. A redesign of the status bar may be on the way, and it may finally be easier for you to monitor your battery health.
Wake-up words may again be available for third-party assistants such as Alexa and even ChatGPT. may have a feature called Private Space that lets you hide data and apps from prying eyes.
AI and lots of it
If you throw a dollar in the jar every time someone mentions artificial intelligence during a keynote, you’ll probably save enough for a vacation. Google is talking about safe money , which can completely replace the Assistant. If so, we can learn some details about switching in I/O.
Again in December, Google has been working on an AI assistant called Pixie as an exclusive feature for Pixel devices. Pixie is said to be built on Gemini and could debut on the Pixel 9 later this year, so it would make sense for the company to start discussing it at I/O.
It won’t be a surprise to learn about generative AI updates to key Google products like Search, Chrome and G Suite. controlled by artificial intelligence and can also be Meanwhile, once again with Google A plan to kill third-party cookies in Chrome can appear as AI and spill the beans on any plans for this in I/O.
Everything else
The Even if these products and services won’t necessarily get airtime at the keynote, they offer some insight into what else Google will be discussing.
There is Google About the future of Wear OS, which includes details on “Advances to the Watch Face Format,” so expect some news about its smartwatch operating system. And it will be On Google TV and Android TV.
Meanwhile, Google’s quantum computing team will talk about what’s possible in space and try to separate fact from fiction. Moment is also on the chart, pointing to developments for multiple display and casting practices.
What not to expect: Pixel 9 or Pixel Fold
It would be a big surprise if Google introduced the Pixel 9 or the new Pixel Fold at the beginning of the year. The company will likely save those details for the fall, before the devices launch then. However, it has been formally implemented Last year at I/O, so we got a look at some of the hardware – especially if it wants to get ahead of the leaks and drive the story.
On the other hand, Google recently merged its Android and hardware teams under Rick Osterloh. His team may want a little more preparation to make sure the new devices are ready for primetime under the latest mod. So any hardware news (including Nest or anything related to wearables) may be a little further off.
