The developer season is now underway, with Google I/O 2024 just hours away. The event starts on May 14 at 10 a.m. PT. So, what can we expect from Google at this event? While it’s unlikely that new phones and smartwatches will be unveiled until the fall, there is still a lot of exciting potential for announcements at Google I/O.
Given the agenda and the current trends in the tech industry, it seems likely that the spotlight will be on AI. Google is expected to showcase how it plans to build on its already significant AI initiatives. Adding to the anticipation, OpenAI is hosting its own event the day before Google I/O, highlighting the growing interest and importance of AI advancements.
How to watch Google I/O 2024?
You can watch the keynote and follow up with on-demand content directly on the official Google I/O website and Google’s YouTube channel.
A placeholder video for the Google I/O keynote is already available on YouTube:
Google I/O 2024 rumors
Google has released the complete Google I/O schedule, detailing the specific breakout sessions. As expected, the keynote will kick off the event on the first day, featuring the most thrilling announcements from Google.
AI, AI, AI…
Google’s gadgets have consistently stood out due to their strong emphasis on artificial intelligence. Over the years, we’ve seen AI integrated into services like Google Assistant’s ability to make restaurant reservations via Google Duplex. AI features have become a central aspect of the Pixel 8 series.
At Google I/O 2024, we anticipate hearing about more AI-assisted functionalities across Google’s entire product range and potential collaborations to extend these features to other devices. For instance, Samsung collaborates with Google to bring Circle to Search to the Galaxy S24 lineup. While many of Google’s AI features are designed for smartphones, extending them to laptops, Chromebooks, wearables, and more would be advantageous.
Additionally, we might receive updates on the enhanced Google Assistant with Bard integration, initially expected in March but potentially launching at Google I/O. Google has also revealed plans to introduce a premium version of Bard Advanced, powered by the company’s Gemini Ultra model.
Android 15
A key topic likely to be addressed at the annual developers conference is Android 15, codenamed Vanilla Ice Cream. This name follows the dessert-themed tradition, succeeding Android 14’s Upside Down Cake.
While the visual design of Android hasn’t undergone major changes in recent versions, we might see the return of lock screen widgets. These were previously available between Android 4.2 Jelly Bean and Android 5 Lollipop but were later removed. With the introduction of StandBy Mode in iOS 17, Apple has brought renewed attention to this feature. Android could follow suit by reintroducing widgets to the lock screen.
Following a couple of developer previews, the first beta of Android 15 is now available for download, at least for Pixel phone users. Expect extensive discussion about Android 15 at Google I/O, including demonstrations of new features.
Pixel Fold 2
Although the Pixel 8a isn’t on the agenda for I/O, we might still see new phone announcements. Last year’s Google I/O saw the debut of the Pixel Fold, Google’s first attempt at a foldable phone. Google I/O 2024 might offer a preview of its successor. While details about the Pixel Fold 2 are scarce, the growing competition in the foldable market in 2023 means the Pixel Fold 2 will need significant refinements to stand out.
Pixel Watch 2
The Pixel Watch 2 was unveiled at Google’s fall event alongside the Pixel 8 phones. However, we might see other wearable announcements at Google I/O 2024, potentially related to either Pixel or Fitbit. The most likely scenario would be a teaser for the Pixel Watch 3, considering the previous two models were introduced at Google’s fall hardware events.
Additionally, Google might be exploring the launch of a fitness ring to compete with products like the Oura Ring and the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Ring. Even if new hardware isn’t showcased, Google is expected to discuss updates to WearOS and any planned new features for the wearable software.
Featured image credit: Google
