Google I/O 2025: Android 16, Android XR, and an AI-Heavy Showcase

Get ready for a tech-packed May! Google I/O 2025 is just around the corner, kicking off on May 20th. But before that, Google is teasing major Android announcements at a special virtual event, "The Android Show: I/O Edition," airing on May 13th. Why the separate showcase? All signs point to a conference heavily focused on AI, leaving Android to shine on its own stage. Here's what we anticipate.

Android 16: The Main Attraction

The Android Show, taking place a week before I/O, suggests it might be the biggest Android news of the show. Google has confirmed that Sameer Samat, the current Android Ecosystem President, will take the stage to unveil all the new features relating to Google's mobile OS. A likely candidate for release is **Android 16**, with many expecting to hear about new features like "Ongoing notifications", similar to Live Activities, and an upgraded photo picker with robust cloud storage support. Some expect Google to release a stable build of Android 16 on the same day of the Android show.

Android XR: Google's AR/VR Comeback?

After a series of unsuccessful XR ventures, Google is reportedly gearing up for another attempt with Android XR. This augmented reality platform is getting a second look after its preview in 2024, this time powered by Google's Gemini AI models. Google is reportedly partnering with Samsung on a headset codenamed "Project Moohan", and some expect it to be demoed at the event. Expect Google to reveal more about Android XR's ecosystem and its development to bring partners on board.

AI Takes Center Stage (Again)

The decision to split Android into its own showcase suggests there will be a heavy focus on AI. Features like **AI Overviews** and **AI Mode** could receive updates, and Google may also share more details on Project Mariner, the web-surfing agent showcased at I/O 2024. The company is now an "AI company," and this theme will be prevalent throughout the event.

Project Astra: A Glimpse into the Future

Project Astra, the advanced AI assistant that leverages Gemini models for real-time image recognition and conversational abilities, made a splash at I/O 2024. While early demos required further development, a potential update at I/O 2025 could showcase the progress made in creating a truly useful AI assistant.

Other Potential Announcements

Wear OS fans should tune into the Android Show for updates, even though Wear OS 5.1 was only recently released. A mobile version of NotebookLM, Google's note-taking app with AI-powered summaries, may also launch on the first day of I/O 2025.

With Google's track record for leaks, surprises might be scarce, but the company always has a few tricks up its sleeve. No matter what happens, stick with Techpus.com to get all the happenings from Google's annual I/O Event.

What are you most excited to see at Google I/O 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• Android 16
• Android XR
• Google I/O