What you need to know

• Google unveiled Googlebook, a new Gemini-focused laptop category built around Android and AI features.
• Google says some Chromebooks may get migration paths, but not every device will support Googlebook features.
• It's still unclear whether future Chromebooks will stay on ChromeOS or shift to Aluminium OS.

At The Android Show today, Google unveiled its new lineup of laptops called Googlebook. However, the company still hasn't clarified what exactly will happen to Chromebooks once Googlebook devices arrive. Here's what we know so far.

Googlebook is Google's new category of laptops built around Gemini Intelligence with Android at the core. The platform introduces several new ideas for desktop computing, including a Magic Pointer with contextual AI suggestions, the ability to run Android apps natively, and seamless access to files from your Android phone.

These Googlebooks are clearly positioned toward productivity users and students looking for AI-focused laptops. But that's also the exact space Chromebooks already occupy today, which naturally raises questions about where ChromeOS devices fit once Googlebook launches.

The Android Central team attended a Google briefing where we specifically asked what would happen to Chromebooks and whether they would eventually receive Googlebook features. Google responded by saying that the company plans to "offer migration options for many devices over time, but not every Chromebook will be eligible."

Google also avoided directly confirming the operating system branding for Googlebook. The company only said it would share more details later this year.

So at this point, Google still hasn't clearly explained what the long-term future of Chromebooks looks like once Googlebook arrives. It's worth remembering that Chromebooks launched in 2021 and later are promised up to 10 years of updates.

What's still unclear is whether those devices will continue receiving ChromeOS updates or eventually transition to the new operating system reportedly powering Googlebook devices, which eaks currently refer to as Aluminium OS.

Android Central's Take

I actually think Googlebook makes a lot of sense. Android and Gemini feel much more modern than ChromeOS right now. But Google really needs to stop creating confusion around its platforms. If Chromebooks are staying, Google needs to be upfront about it. And if Googlebook is replacing them, the company should just say so clearly.

What you need to know

• At the Android Show, Google highlighted massive upgrades to your security and privacy on its software.
• Location access is becoming more transparent, meaning users can more easily when and which apps have access their location to manage them.
• Better protections against banking scams are on the way, alongside "Mark as Lost," which introduces a biometric layer to protect your phone if it gets stolen.

You can't have an Android Show without the Android OS showing up in some way, and Google's doing that by highlighting better security and privacy.

Stronger controls that users can directly put to use are coming to Android 17 this year. Google highlighted during the Android Show that it's introducing a "temporary precise location" button; this might be useful to someone who wants to know where a cafe is around them or perform other quick tasks. Since this is something you'd do in the moment, Google says it's worked in privacy software to ensure unwanted tracking doesn't get a chance to show its face.

More location access transparency from apps that track where you are will be included. Users will be able to tap this indicator and see which apps have recently tracked their location and manage them. What's more, there's a "Contact Picker" that's being worked on by developers. In the instance that an app asks for contacts access, users should soon find "the specific fields" the app is interested in filling.

This might help users who want to share just one contact, instead of revealing their entire list to an app.

Scams are as prevalent as air nowadays. Google's trying to do something to help users by introducing stronger defenses for potential banking scams. In its press release, the company states that it's "working with select banks and financial institutions to help protect their customers with verified financial calls, a new phone call spoofing protection feature designed to keep your money and personal information safe."

This takes another step up, as Google says that if its software on your device detects a call from a spoofed number, it will end the call for you. The post says that it's been working with "select banks and financial institutions," and if you are with one of those places, you'll be protected. Working in the background, if you receive a call from someone who you think is (or isn't) from your bank, Android will ask if you'd like it to verify their authenticity.

Google says that it plans to roll out these enhanced bank scam protections for devices with Android 11 or higher with Revolut, Itaú, and Nubank "in the coming weeks." There are plans to extend these protections to more banks, but there's no date set in stone.

Watch what you download

Live Threat Detection made a brief appearance during the 2025 Show. Now, it's back, and Google says this is getting an upgrade for 2026. What's rolling out now are "warnings about suspicious behavior that could be potentially harmful." These defenses will specifically target SMS forwarding (when an app forwards a message to another number) and accessibility overlay, which could be used to trick you into an action you didn't want to complete.

Dynamic signal monitoring, which is the solution to these problems (debuting in Android 17), will monitor and inform users about any harmful app behavior. If an app mysteriously changes or hides its icon, you'll know. Google is targeting the second half of 2026 to roll this out.

Joining these updates is one for Advanced Protection. What's leading the charge this time is USB Protection and Intrusion Logging. The former is becoming available to all Pixel devices with Android 16 or higher in Advanced Protection. Google plans to extend its availability to other Android phones "soon." Intrusion Logging, which "enables persistent and privacy-preserving forensics logging," is rolling out to all Android 16 devices with the December update or newer software.

Elsewhere, Chrome on Android is improving Safe Browsing. If you're looking to download an APK or an app from a third-party, Chrome will analyze it for malware. If it detects something harmful, it will stop you from progressing.

Keep your phone (and your sensitive content) safeguarded

Find Hub helps to keep users connected to their devices in the event that they're misplaced (or worse). Today (May 12), Google highlighted an update coming for the Find Hub's "Mark as lost." In Android 17, users can "lock a phone with biometric authentication, in addition to the regular device passcode or PIN." By doing so, you give another layer of protection for your device, as thieves can't unlock your phone (if they know your PIN) and turn off location tracking and more.

Additionally, marking your device as lost will also hide your Quick Settings and disable new Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections.

Google then went into an update for "default-on theft protections." These are now being expanded globally. Android 17 will have these safety measures enabled by default. Users can expect the aid of the Remote Lock and Theft Detection Lock. Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and the U.K. are getting default-on theft protections for Android phones with OS 10 or higher. Elsewhere, your device's IMEI number can be accessed via your lock screen to aid law enforcement and others.

Android Central's Take

I'm always a fan of new—meaningful—security/privacy upgrades. It's a digital age, and there are times when it feels like you're just out there, exposed for all to see. Introducing better features like this that matter, that make it feel like we can keep what matters to us, only for us, makes a huge difference.

What you need to know

• Google is integrating the Gemini 3.1 AI directly into Chrome for Android's toolbar starting in June.
• It allows you to summarize long articles, ask questions about the current page, and extract details without leaving the browser or switching apps.
• By opting into "Personal Intelligence," users can allow Gemini to personalize its answers based on their hobbies, family details, and preferences.
• Chrome will be able to execute multi-step tasks on your behalf, like using event ticket details to book a parking spot or automatically updating a recurring dog food order.

Chrome on Android is becoming far more ambitious than a mobile browser. At The Android Show: I/O Edition 2026, Google introduced a host of Gemini-powered capabilities that make Chrome feel more like an intelligent assistant that can do far more than just help you browse the web.

Google announced that next month, Gemini will show up inside Chrome for Android. This will be a full agentic experience built on Gemini 3.1. For users, this removes the need to toggle between apps or copy-paste snippets of text into an AI chatbot.

Instead, you can just tap a Gemini symbol in the upper right corner of Chrome’s toolbar and ask questions about the webpage you're looking at. This may include summarizing extensive articles, breaking down tough topics, or retrieving specific details from a page without interrupting your browsing.

The tech giant is also going hard on connected experiences across its ecosystem. Gemini in Chrome can work with Google apps like Gmail, Calendar, and Keep to do light work. You might take recipe components into Keep, make calendar events from webpages, or grab information from inside Gmail conversations, all within the browser.

If consumers opt in to Personal Intelligence, Google says the experience gets even more tailored. This allows Gemini to adapt replies based on your likes, hobbies, family, and other personal information. The argument here is convenience, though it also raises the usual questions about how much personal data people are comfortable feeding into AI systems.

Another addition is Nano Banana. The feature enables users to create or change visuals directly from webpages. You can transform online study material into an infographic or digitally furnish an apartment listing with AI-generated decor ideas.

Agentic 'auto browse' tool

Then there’s auto browse, which may end up being the most important feature of the bunch. This is Google’s attempt at agentic browsing, where Chrome can actually carry out tasks on your behalf. The examples Google shared are intentionally practical: reserving parking through SpotHero using details from an event ticket or updating recurring Chewy pet food orders automatically as your puppy grows older.

Of course, giving an AI assistant the power to do things online also raises security problems. Google says these features include the same protections found on desktop Chrome, including defenses against prompt injection attacks. Sensitive actions like purchases or social media posts will still require user confirmation before completion.

There are a few limitations. Gemini in Chrome and auto browse require devices with at least 4GB of RAM, Android 12 or newer, and English-U.S. language settings. Google says Gemini in Chrome starts rolling out to select Android devices in the U.S. at the end of June, while auto browse will initially be limited to AI Pro and Ultra subscribers.

Android Central's Take

I can already see how this might be one of the more valuable Gemini integrations Google has launched yet. Having Chrome understand what I’m reading, pull info from my apps, and handle repetitive tasks sounds far more practical than another flashy AI demo that nobody uses after a week. At the same time, though, Google is asking users to trust AI with an increasingly huge chunk of their digital lives, from browsing habits to purchases and personal data. Whether that’s reassuring or a little disconcerting depends on how much control you’re ready to give up in exchange for saving a few taps.

What you need to know

• The Android Show discussed what AI features users can expect on the Galaxy S26 series and Pixel 10 this summer.
• Gemini Intelligence will arrive soon, giving users task automations, as well as the AI's ability to understand visual context and what's on your screen.
• With this Agentic Future, Google says it will continue to give users control over the AI, so it doesn't do anything without their explicit request, and users reserve the ability to turn it off or on whenever.

Gemini Intelligence was a hot topic for Google during the Android Show, showcasing how the company wants to help users automate certain tasks.

The software is headed to Android devices following the Android Show "this summer," and Google says you can expect it on its Pixels and the latest Samsung Galaxy phones. Dressed in the company's Material 3 Expressive design, Gemini Intelligence is receiving automation capabilities for apps for food and rideshare. But there's more, Google teases. It adds that soon, "Gemini will navigate tasks for you — whether it’s snagging a front-row bike for your spin class or finding your class syllabus in Gmail, then putting the books you need in your cart."

Sure, your voice is a pretty good way to work with an AI, but Google says there's potential there for visual context. Gemini Intelligence is said to incorporate "screen and image context." Without switching between a bunch of apps, Gemini can be activated over your notes app (for example) to help you create a grocery list. This could even work for a photo you snapped of a banner or poster.

Google adds that you can watch Gemini's progress via Live Notifications, and the AI will stop once it's done. Users can expect Gemini Intelligence to arrive on the Galaxy S26 series and the Pixel 10 first this summer. This feature will roll out "in waves" as they become ready.

Gemini Intelligence isn't stopping there, as users should expect a smarter Autofill on their phones. Google says it wants to tackle one problem: filling out complex forms on a mobile screen. Typically, you only autofill with recent data, such as your email address. With Gemini, users can connect the AI to Autofill, allowing it to connect with your apps to automatically write in the right information.

Google reiterates that this is an opt-in-only feature. It can be enabled or disabled whenever you like in your settings. In a similar vein of filling in text, Gboard is getting a new feature called "Rambler." It's exactly what you think it might be. We all ramble at times, and Rambler, when converting your speech into text, will take out unnecessary words and phrases.

What's more, Rambler can understand multiple languages. A bit of Spanglish (Spanish and English) is now effortlessly added to your text message, thanks to Gemini's smarts working as the backbone of Rambler.

Google's AI is also staring down another ambition: generative UI. In short, Gemini Intelligence will help users create custom widgets on their phones. This will be introduced as "Create My Widget." Users can tell Gemini on their home screen what kind of widget they'd like. If you want a widget that counts down the days to your first marathon, helps you find meals to make during the week, and more, Gemini can do that. These capabilities are coming to your Android phone and Wear OS devices.

Agentic? Yes, but Google wants safety

Google is slowly but surely altering our perspective on Android. It states that it wants to shift it from a regular, static OS to an "intelligence system."

To do that, Gemini Intelligence is required. While we've already gone over its major processes and features for 2026, Google isn't shying away from your security. This is often a major concern, as many features require users to provide sensitive information or access to things on their devices that would give anyone pause.

Explicit user control is one area where Google says it's focused. Through this, it ensures that users receive "granular controls" over the AI, meaning you can turn it on or off whenever you like. It's security talks confidence. Gemini is said to only automate tasks or complete a request when you've asked it to. Moreover, "Gemini is designed to require user confirmation before making purchases on your behalf." Then, there's your explicit intent. Users stay in control over how and where Gemini uses their data.

If you're okay with sharing your text messages, that is your choice (and vice versa). Google has also worked on several layers of data protection for users, thanks to the Private Compute Core, Private AI Compute, and protected KVM. Transparency is a must, which is why users will find AI assistant history logs and Live Notifications, which let you know how Gemini is doing, exist on Android.

Android Central's Take

For me, Gemini shines when it comes to automation and questions and discovering new activities. To take a photo of a poster that you've seen, and to then ask Gemini to find something similar for you, is cool. It's a decent bit of helpfulness that I feel will position Gemini nicely in people's minds. For a quick bit of help while you're out, Gemini can be a powerful aid to avoid spending too much time researching, which will take away from your vacation time.

What you need to know

• Googlebook laptops are built around Gemini AI with deep system-wide AI integration across the experience.
• Magic Pointer lets users trigger Gemini actions contextually just by hovering over on-screen elements.
• Googlebook can run Android phone apps directly and access files without manual transfers or emulation.
• Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo will launch the first Googlebook laptops later this fall.

It's been over 15 years since the first Chromebook was announced, and a lot about laptops and desktop operating systems has changed since then. Google is now taking things in a completely new direction with what it calls a new category of laptops: Googlebooks.

Announced at The Android Show, Googlebooks are built around what the company calls Gemini Intelligence. designed from the ground up with Gemini AI deeply integrated into the experience. In the official blog post, Google says computing is shifting from "from an operating system to an intelligence system," and Googlebooks are a chance to rethink laptops.

Every part of a Googlebook is expected to integrate Gemini. One of the headline features is Google's Magic Pointer. The company says users can simply wiggle their cursor to bring up Gemini-powered contextual suggestions directly on screen.

For example, hovering over a date in an email could instantly create a calendar event. Google also says you'll be able to do things like point at two images and combine them together, for example, placing a couch into a photo of your living room to preview how it would look.

Similar to Android, Google is also bringing AI-generated widgets to Googlebooks. The feature, called Create your Widget, lets users ask Gemini to build custom widgets on the fly. These widgets can pull information from apps like Gmail, Calendar, and Drive.

For example, you could ask Gemini to create a travel widget, and it would automatically gather your hotel bookings, calendar events, and things to do into one dashboard on your home screen.

The company is also leaning heavily into Android ecosystem integration. Google says Googlebooks will run apps directly from an Android phone without downloads or emulation.

The laptops will additionally feature Quick Access, which lets users browse and insert files directly from their Android phone into the laptop's file browser without needing manual transfers.

From what we've seen so far, a Googlebook will also allow users to pin apps, files, and folders directly to the desktop, something Android's current desktop mode still lacks. That alone could make these devices feel much closer to traditional Windows laptops or MacBooks.

On the hardware side, Google says it's partnering with Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo for the first wave of Googlebook devices. The company also says every Googlebook will feature "premium craftsmanship and materials" alongside a new "glowbar" — something many initially expected to debut on the Pixel 11 series instead.

Google has not yet shared pricing, specifications, or exact launch timelines for the first Googlebook laptops, but the company says more details will arrive later this year when devices become available in the fall.

Android Central's Take

Honestly, this is a very interesting move from Google. The company is essentially going head-to-head with both Apple and Microsoft by slowly turning Android into a proper cross-platform smartphone and desktop operating system experience. And honestly, Android feels more powerful than ever right now.

With more powerful apps and creator-focused tools expected to arrive this year, Googlebook could push Android much closer to being genuinely comparable to Windows laptops and MacBooks, especially for the education-focused workloads that Chromebooks were originally built for.

Of course, Googlebook will still face tough competition from devices like the MacBook Neo and Snapdragon Elite-powered Windows ARM laptops, but this honestly feels like one of the most promising directions Google has taken in years.

What you need to know

• The Android Show 2026 is going on, and Google revealed major updates for Android Auto and Gemini's involvement.
• Users can an edge-to-edge experience for Google Maps, as well as its Immersive Navigation update, bringing a robust 3D view.
• Video-to-audio transitions are headed to cars, then there's Gemini Intelligence "later this year."

The Android Show welcomes users into what's coming up next from Google with its Android Auto experience in 2026 — and becoming a system that's "uniquely yours" is the name of the game for Android Auto in 2026.

During the Show, Google revealed that it's preparing to deliver an overhauled Material 3 Expressive redesign for the OS for vehicles. Google Maps has been reworked with an edge-to-edge design to help fit the many different types of car screens. This is joined by the app's "Immersive Navigation" update.

The app's 3D view now includes 3D buildings that spring to life, while your little car model trucks along the roads. Overpasses, terrain, and "critical details" such as lanes and traffic lights are included. Outside of this, Google states you can add shortcuts for your favorite contacts on Android Auto's homepage, a one-tap garage door opener button, and more.

Smoother animations, more wallpapers, and expressive fonts are on the way to Android Auto too with its Material 3 Expressive update, mirroring the experience you have on your phone.

If you've never seen your car as the perfect place to watch a video or a movie, Google wants to change that this year.

Android Auto's next update involves full support for 60fps Full HD videos this year. If you're parked or charging, Google envisions you kicking back and relaxing with YouTube in BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo cars. However, for road safety, any video will pause when you start moving, shifting into an "audio-only" mode.

Cars have some pretty decent speakers now, and Google wants to take advantage of that, too, with Dolby Atmos in "supported apps and cars." Regarding the latter, Google will bring this premium audio quality support to BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo first. It teases that YouTube Music and Spotify will get a visual refresh in Android Auto, as well, similar to what was stated for Google Maps.

Gemini wants a ride, too

If you thought Google's Gemini was skipping out on Android Auto, this next part is on the contrary. To start, Gemini is now "more widely available" in vehicles with the software. What's more, Gemini Intelligence is headed to drivers "later this year." The company states that this will bring useful aid for texts, as Magic Cue will swipe those important pieces of context, like their question about an address, and send a reply for you with those details.

Google also highlights its upcoming support for DoorDash with Gemini Intelligence. While driving, users can tell Gemini to order their usual meal and make sure it's for pickup. You could also tell Gemini to "double it," meaning to double the amount of food you'd usually get. Drivers need only tap to confirm the order's contents.

Cars with Google built-in aren't getting left out, either. Google says those users can expect the same video-to-audio transition updates and the Immersive Navigation patch for Maps. Gemini is already rolling out to vehicles with Google built in.

Android Central's Take

On the surface, these updates seem quite nice. They don't seem too overbearing. Personally, I think the Gemini updates will really shine. We already have little stands for our phones while we're driving. They help with Maps navigation or for taking a quick call. To have Gemini ready to take your request in more helpful ways just makes driving feel easy. We have enough to worry about being on the road anyway, don't we?

What you need to know

• Android 17 adds creator-focused tools like Screen Reactions for recording videos and reactions together.
• Google says Instagram uploads on Android will now retain much better photo and video quality.
• Google is turning Android into a better platform for creators with APV video and Premiere support.

iPhones have always been the go-to platform for creators, but Google is finally taking things seriously and bringing some major creator-focused improvements to Android with the Android 17 update.

At The Android Show: I/O Edition today, alongside announcing Googlebook, Google also revealed a number of updates aimed at creators on Android. The company is adding deeper social media integrations, new AI-powered editing tools, and better support for professional-grade mobile video workflows.

One of the biggest additions is a new feature called Screen Reactions. It lets users record themselves and their screen at the same time, making it much easier to create reaction-style videos without needing separate apps or green screen setups.

Google says the feature will first roll out to Pixel devices later this summer, although there is no confirmation yet on when it will arrive on other Android phones.

Google is also heavily improving the Instagram experience on Android. The company says it has worked with Meta to bring features like Ultra HDR capture and playback, built-in video stabilization, and Night Sight integration to flagship Android phones.

On top of that, Google says it has optimized the entire capture-to-upload pipeline, which should finally improve the quality of Instagram Stories uploaded from Android devices, something users have complained about for years.

In addition to that, Google is also adding new tools to the Edits app. There are several new AI-powered features, including Smart Enhance, which can upscale photos and videos directly on-device. There's also a new sound separation tool that can identify and isolate different audio tracks, letting you remove or boost specific sounds like music, noise, or voices.

Google additionally says Android is becoming a "true mobile workstation" for YouTubers, vloggers, and filmmakers. Instagram is now being fully optimized for Android tablets, while Adobe Premiere is also set to arrive on Android later this summer with templates and effects designed for creating YouTube Shorts.

The company is also continuing its push for APV (Advanced Professional Video), a professional-grade yet storage-efficient video format co-developed with Samsung. APV is already available on devices like the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Vivo X300 Ultra, with more Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered phones expected to support it later this year.

Android Central's Take

I've been calling out social media apps for years to properly optimize their Android apps, especially Instagram, and it finally feels like Google is giving them the push they needed. The new creator-focused tools also genuinely look useful instead of just being another AI gimmick slapped onto Android.

What you need to know

• Google reportedly teased what's coming up for its Android Show: I/O 2026 Edition in a now-removed YouTube video.
• It's been stated that the description highlights the reveals as the "biggest" for Android yet.
• The Android Show is eyeing a May 12 date at 10 am PT/12pm ET, a week before I/O 2026 will reveal major Android 17 details and more.

Update

Google has uploaded its official Android Show 2026 announcement video on YouTube (and kept it this time). The company has also revealed its website for the Android Show's upcoming event on May 12 at 10 am PT/12 pm ET (via 9to5Google). Interested parties can set their reminders in preparation for the event later this month.

We're already looking ahead to I/O 2026 in May; however, Google is seemingly teasing a show before the main event to get us ready for the next era of Android.

Google is reportedly teasing what's coming up for its Android Show, which will precede its I/O 2026 conference in May (via 9to5Google). The video, which is no longer available on YouTube at the time of writing, stated the Android Show: I/O Edition will begin on May 12 at 10 am PT (12 pm ET). There's speculation that this show will involve consumer-oriented updates and insights for Android.

The publication highlighted the video's description, which reportedly positions this year's show as the most significant one yet. Google said, "This is going to be one of the biggest years for Android yet." The brief teaser concludes by stating, "be the first to take a look at what the future holds."

There was quite a bit covered last year, so it's likely we're looking at a similar situation.

It's the Android Show

If we take a look at what Google did last year, its teaser for the Android Show (2025 edition) featured its own website. The site, at the time, was pretty brief, only showing the date, time, and a quick description of what users could expect. It's pretty much no different than what Google's done today (or, not today?) with its now-removed YouTube video. Last year, the company's Sameer Samat, President of Android Ecosystem, and members of the Android team, hosted the show.

The show typically airs a week before I/O does, and it looks like we're staring at a similar approach this year, too. The 2025 edition held quite a few hefty insights, such as Material 3 Expressive, Gemini's expansion to more devices, and Gemini's scam detection capabilities.

Following Google's round of puzzles, users revealed I/O 2026's date, which is slated for May 19-20. We also got a good look at its sessions list. Google is preparing to talk about Android 17, its AI software, and big Chrome updates for the year.

Android Central's Take

The Android Show is like a little space where Google's software can shine a little before everything else at I/O. What's most curious is that the company teased major Android 17 highlights for I/O 2026, so what's this show going to discuss? Perhaps any UI revamps will appear, alongside what's coming for Gemini that matters on our phones. The bigger highlights will likely be reserved for the main event the week after, but this will serve as an appetizer to keep us going.

We're only a week away from Google I/O, and it's unusual for Google to preview upcoming features before they are officially announced at the event. So this year, Google took a different approach by revealing some of the significant developments much earlier than expected.

The Android President did drop some hints on showing off Android 16's quirks before its launch, however, and several other UI leaks have also pointed at an early first look. Meanwhile, here's everything that was announced at The Android Show - I/O Edition today (May 13).

Material 3 Expressive

Google has announced one of the biggest UI changes to its ecosystem. At the upcoming I/O developer conference, Google is set to officially show off the next big chapter in Android design: The company is switching things up in a big way with Material 3 Expressive (M3).

For Material 3 Expressive, Google is modifying its UI experience to be more expressive and interactive. Google explains that M3 Expressive is all about design that feels good, makes sense, and helps you do things with ease. It leans on five key components, such as color, shape, size, motion, and containment, to steer the user's attention to the stuff that actually matters.

These UI changes will show up both on phones and wearables, with the interface sporting a brighter look. You’ll see the notification “tear away” from the rest of the notifications in the stack. Animations around the UI now bounce with a playful energy they didn’t have before. Even small elements get their spotlight, like when you adjust the volume slider or pull down the notification shade.

On the Pixel Watch front, Google says the new animations and designs “trace the curvature of the display” as you scroll and interact.

Wear OS 6 will be seeing more customization via color options and a customizable UI. Watch faces will now have the ability to change the whole color of the OS, giving the wearable a more thematic feel.

Google says the new button and notification design is made to “hug the display” as it moves, taking up as much space within the wearable as possible and making the most of the screen. There are even new stretchable buttons that are easier to tap, so you don’t have to be quite as precise with actions.

Gemini comes to more devices

Google announced during the show that it will be bringing Gemini's smarts to more devices that people use daily.

It started by replacing Google Assistant with Gemini earlier this year, and things have just taken off since then. Now, it's expanding Gemini's power to Wear OS, Google TV, Android Auto, and even Android XR.

Gemini will be integrated into Wear OS, helping users stay on top of things straight from their wrists.

"Like when your hands are covered in flour while cooking, when you’re rushing between meetings, or when you’re in the middle of a bike ride," Google explained in the press release. All users need to do is summon Gemini with their voice and give it a command. Google says it doesn't have to be a fully thought-out sentence.

Cars are also getting a Gemini-sized upgrade on Android Auto. While voice commands have been at the center of Android Auto, with Gemini, the tech giant says users can do more on the move.

Gemini, built into Android Auto, will be a more intuitive assistant that can gauge what the user wants "through natural conversations." So instead of hitting on the right response or choosing the right text to send, Gemini will let you do all of that hands-free.

Google says Gemini can find you a location that exactly fits your needs. For instance, you can give it a complex command like, "find me a charging station on the way to the post office that’s also near a park, so that I can go for a walk before your errands while your car is charging."

Gemini within Android Auto integrates with other apps to allow users to be more productive while driving. For instance, during your morning commute, you can ask Gemini to give you "the rundown of the news today (but without sports), or get a quick synopsis of the book that you didn't get around to finishing before your book club meeting," Google added.

Next, Google TV is also getting a slice of Gemini Live. From asking the TV to play age-appropriate shows or movies for the kids to answering questions about the solar system by pulling up the perfect YouTube video, Google TV is said to go beyond just showcasing entertainment.

Google is taking Gemini a step further, integrating it into the world of Extended Reality — this includes next-gen devices like XR headsets and smartglasses.

Google says that with the Samsung headset and Gemini Live collab, it "can help you do things like plan a vacation by surrounding you with videos, maps, and local tips, creating an entire itinerary in minutes while providing a more," giving a sense that they're already at their vacay spot even before getting on the plane.

Tackling scams with Gemini

While online scams continue to rise, Google is trying to be a step ahead with its AI detection system. During the show, it announced a whole slew of privacy and security tools that will show up on all Android devices with Android 16.

New warning systems will be built into Android's caller and Google Messages, which help prevent fraud by sending you pop-up messages when common scam tactics are used.

For instance, Google Messages is also getting a big security update with AI-based detection that can help stop scammers pretending to be government officials or bank employees, or even"tech support" scams, and several other new categories. These messages will be automatically flagged and filtered as spam if spam detection is enabled.

It also gave us more insight into a new Key Verifier program in Google Messages that uses public encryption keys to further verify end-to-end encrypted messages, so you can be certain that the person you're texting is the real deal and not a bad actor.

Google Play Protection will also include live threat detection that will let users know if a developer has maliciously changed or hidden their app icon. The feature will roll out to Pixel 6 and higher devices, as well as a "selection" of other phones, in the coming months.

We know Google always drops some hints at the end of its show, this time Google just showed us with a logo of its Android 16 Beta 4.1, which includes a number of bug fixes.

We expect to see the above improvements and more at this year's Google I/O, which is set for 1 PM ET on May 20 at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California.

Google I/O is happening at the end of the month, but the company is giving us a look ahead of what is coming to Android 16. Here's everything that's launching and we have a lot to say about it!

Tune in here as we break down all the news for you.

Google I/O season is upon us, but this year, Google is doing something different. Instead of mixing all the exciting announcements in with boring coding events meant for developers, The Android Show is debuting a week ahead of Google I/O, bringing all the exciting new Android announcements we all care about, so the developers can stick to their thing next week.

Today, we’re expecting to hear all about the new Material design update, called Material 3 Expressive, that’s coming along with Android 16. Gemini will make an appearance in new places and on new types of devices this year, bringing new features and enhanced convenience with it.

Google continues to shore up users against the never-ending threats the internet brings, including new scam prevention features for calls and texts. Lastly, Google looks to have a brief update on RCS communication in the U.S. now that carriers and iPhones have fully moved over to the newest wireless communication standard.

Of all the new announcements today, Material 3 Expressive is the most exciting. Material design made its debut a decade ago with Android 6, bringing along a paper-like aesthetic complete with a UI that changed colors based on the app on screen.

Android 12 debuted the second-generation Material You, allowing users to select the colors they wanted for the UI instead of apps leading the charge. Material 3 Expressive is all about taking the core color tenets of Material You and adding in a touch of liveliness, playfulness, and customization.

Now, when you dismiss a notification on Pixel phones or other phones that use Android 16’s Material 3 Expressive as its base theme, you’ll see the notification “tear away” from the rest of the notifications in the stack. Animations around the UI now bounce and emit a playful energy they didn’t have before. Even small elements of the UI now have life, like when you adjust the volume slider or pull down the notification shade.

We saw Google hint at this coming on Pixel phones a few years ago, as the volume and brightness sliders would emit a ticking vibration as if you were rotating a physical dial. Google is also updating dynamic color schemes to offer more user-selectable visual choices than ever before.

And let’s face it, Material 3 Expressive is a much better name than Material You.

Oh my gosh seriously, look at that animation! Notifications are grouped together in a subtle way that becomes clear the moment you try to swipe one away. They almost look like leaves on a vine, as the whole stack gets lightly tugged one way until the one you're grabbing delivers a satisfying "snap" off the group. I can see myself playing with these kinds of animations for hours, how about you?

Material 3 Expressive isn’t just about colors. It’s also about improving your overall experience! Foremost to the experience is the revamped notification and quick toggles shade that ditches the annoying black/white color scheme from Material You with a customizable, semi-transparent design. The quick toggle section can now fit 12 or more icons in a single space, and it’s much more customizable than Pixel and stock Android users have seen it in ages.

Across apps, icons and buttons are now larger, better defined, and easier to find when they follow the new design language. Google says that its own user studies show up to a 4x speed increase in recognition, thanks to the new design. Apps like Gmail are seeing a huge new redesign to put the most prominent action icons right where you can see them instead of being hidden behind menus.

There’s even a new Live Updates feature that pins a “glanceable live tile” to your notification shade so you won’t miss out. It’s a little bit like Samsung’s Now Bar or the myriad of other Dynamic Island-inspired ideas on other Android phones, but now properly baked into the base OS itself.

Pinned notifications for important content isn't anything new, but Live Notifications melds the concept with some other recent ideas in an attempt to make them more useful and glaceable. You can see them in the notification shade, on the lock screen, and even on the always-on display. Do you find this useful, or is it just annoying?

Wear OS users aren’t missing out on the brand new Material 3 Expressive design, as Google is totally overhauling significant parts of Wear OS 6 to fit the new design language. Google continues to embrace the trademark circle shape of most Wear OS watches, further optimizing the UI to look and feel better on non-square displays.

Google says the new animations and designs “trace the curvature of the display” as you scroll and interact, making it feel like an OS that’s built for a circular watch rather than looking at a square OS through a circular window.

This even includes new shape-morphing elements that scale better between screen sizes, so you can enjoy the best experience on smaller watches like the Pixel Watch 3 without having to opt for a more massive option.

As you might expect from Material 3 Expressive, Wear OS 6 will be integrating a lot more customization via color options and a more customizable UI. Watch faces can now define the color of the entire OS, so your themed experience is felt throughout instead of just on the watch face.

Google says the new button and notification design is made to “hug the display” as it moves, taking up as much real estate as possible and making the most of the screen. There are even new stretchable buttons that are easier to tap, so you don’t have to be quite as precise with actions. I’ve found small buttons on watches to be a pain more than once, so this is a welcome change!

Gemini is on its way to more devices than ever, starting with Android Auto, TVs, and Wear OS. As expected, Gemini is replacing Google Assistant on every device Google can pack it in, enabling more natural speech and actions than Assistant could ever offer.

But it’s not just about letting you be your awkward self and still get things done. Gemini ties into more Google apps than Assistant could, giving you the ability to quickly search emails from your wrist with just your voice, or set complex reminders with multiple actions.

Responses are much better than before, too, as Gemini uses more natural language and delivers glanceable information on wrists and in cars when you don't want (or can't) to look at a screen for a long time.

I’ve never been a fan of having a giant touch screen to further distract me from the road, and apparently, Google has been listening to critics as Gemini integration into Android Auto is making things more hands-free and eyes-free than ever. Gemini will be able to do tons of new things completely hands-free, whereas before you had to scroll through lists and tap lots of buttons, acting as a distraction from driving instead of a helpful tool.

Google says Gemini will be able to read messages out loud and not only allow you to reply to them in real-time, but it can also translate messages before they’re sent.

Gemini can also summarize text threads, emails, and other notifications so that you can get an idea of what’s happening while you’re driving without having to manually navigate through all the fluff. It sounds like a dream come true, really, and it’s coming later this year.

Google TV is also getting the Gemini upgrade, which should help you find what you want to watch next without worrying about which service has it available.

Later this year when Samsung’s mixed reality headset launches, Gemini will power the experience in ways we’ve never seen before. Google says that Gemini in-headset "can help you do things like plan a vacation by surrounding you with videos, maps, and local tips, creating an entire itinerary in minutes while providing a more."

This should be a lot more visual, interesting, and powerful than trying to navigate all of this stuff on a tiny phone screen. Google previously said that Gemini through a mixed reality headset or smart glasses can also control actions in the headset, so you could likely ask it to help you perform actions for you instead of following a tutorial.

If you’ve ever been the victim of fraud, you know how bad it feels to have someone trick you or steal your identity. Thankfully, Google is using AI in a way we’ve all been wanting: to help stop criminals in their tracks before they can swindle you out of your hard-earned money.

A bevy of new security features is coming to all Android phones, not just ones powered by Android 16 later this year, and it all adds up to a more secure, comfortable smartphone experience. Paramount to these features is a new warnings system built into the Android dialer and Google Messages which help prevent fraud by popping up messages when common scam tactics are used.

One example Google used is that apps won’t be allowed to be sideloaded while you’re sharing your screen, and banking apps will now warn you that someone is watching before you accidentally share confidential information with “tech support” on the other end. It’s a series of huge new moves Google is making to help make its users feel safer online, and it’s great to see!

A new live threat detection feature will keep track of app changes, helping to prevent apps from abruptly changing their names or icons in order to hide from a user. This commonly happened with scam apps as it would prevent users from uninstalling them since the app changed its name or icon after being installed. This one is coming to all Android phones with Google Play Services installed.

Google Messages is also getting a big security update with AI-based detection that can help stop scammers pretending to be toll road authorities, bill collectors, crypto scams, financial impersonation, gift card and prize scams, "tech support" scams, and several other new categories. These messages will be automatically flagged and filtered as spam if spam detection is enabled.

Users can also participate in a new Key Verifier program in Google Messages on phones running Android 10 and higher. Key Verifier uses public encryption keys to further verify end-to-end encrypted messages, so you can be sure that the person you're texting is actually that person and not an impersonator. Key Verifier is launching this summer.

Some of us are still a bit undecided about the design changes coming with Material 3 Expressive. However, something that did catch my eye was seeing the floating bars appear at the bottom of some of the apps.

In the example above, Fitbit lets you jump between time frames for whatever information you're looking at. The Google Photos app seems to be making it easier to share and edit your pictures without jumping through a bunch of menus.

IMO, it's a much better solution than sticking a bunch of menus and sub-menus behind a hamburger menu.

Shortly after The Android Show wrapped up, Google surprised us with a new beta. Unfortunately, this doesn't include the Material 3 Expressive design changes that were shown off. Instead, it's just Android 16 Beta 4.1, which includes a number of bug fixes.

We suspect to learn more about the new design changes and anything else that Google didn't show off today. I/O 2025 will kick off at 1 PM ET on May 20 at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California. And has been the case for a few years, you'll be able to watch the Keynote alongside everyone else.

• Google I/O 2025: How to watch and what to expect

Towards the end of the presentation, Dieter Bohn, Android Central alumnus and Director of Product Narrative at Google, was showing off some of the latest devices to be released. These included the Pixel 9a, Motorola Razr Ultra, along with foldables on one end of the table and a tablet propped up on the other.

As spotted by Shane Craig, this isn't just another Samsung device being shown off, as it's actually running what appears to be Google's revamped Desktop Mode. Unfortunately, there aren't any close-ups of the tablet showing off the interface more than the floating windows and taskbar.

It's difficult to really discern, but Craig goes on to suggest that this could have been our first look at the Pixel Tablet 2. To me, it looks more like a Samsung Galaxy tablet that's running stock Android as opposed to OneUI, but who knows? Maybe Google will have a surprise for everyone at I/O next week.

Google isn't the only company excited about Gemini coming to more devices. Samsung announced today that it's integrating Gemini into its Galaxy smartwatches and accessories "in the coming months."

For the Galaxy Watch, this means you'll be able to pull up Gemini straight from your wrist to bring up reminders, summarize emails, and more, based on Gemini's ability to work across apps. And for Galaxy Buds like the Buds 3 Pro, users will be able to easily trigger Gemini without reaching for their phones.

Now the question remains: who will get Gemini on a smartwatch first? Google or Samsung 🤔

Find My Device is getting a glow-up and turning into Find Hub, which will make it easier to locate your stuff and stay in touch with friends and family all from one place. Google is partnering with companies such as July, Mokobara, and Peak, as well as airlines around the world, so that losing your luggage or skis will become a thing of the past.

Find Hub will also work with ultra-wide band (UWB) tags like the Moto Tag for even more precise location item tracking.

Finally, just like all your iPhone friends follow each other on Apple's Find My app, Google's new Find Hub will let you and your friends track each other for added peace of mind or just for the fun of it. And satellite connectivity will make it even easier to stay connected when you don't have a signal, which is pretty handy.

That's a wrap on The Android Show: I/O Edition live blog!

We know there was a lot of stuff covered today, from Android 16 to Gemini coming to more devices and enhanced security features keeping us safe on our phones. To make it easy, we condensed it all into a single article so you can take a look at everything that was announced at The Android Show.

We'll see you all next week at Google I/O 2025 for even more exciting announcements!

What you need to know

• Gemini Live is expanding across the Android ecosystem, replacing Google Assistant on phones and integrating into wearables, cars, TVs, and XR.
• This integration focuses on providing more intuitive, hands-free, and context-aware AI assistance across various devices.
• Google is demonstrating a push for AI-powered experiences beyond smartphones, with platform-specific use cases highlighted.
• Key Gemini features will soon be rolling out to different Android platforms, and more details are likely to be announced at Google I/O.

It's I/O season! As we wait for the ball to drop, Google's Android team decided to give us some of the biggest news across the Android ecosystem before we head to Google I/O later this month.

This is the first time that the tech giant has decided to show off what's coming to Google's devices across its ecosystem, without holding it off for I/O. Google announced during the show that it will be bringing Gemini's smarts to more devices that people use daily.

It started by replacing Google Assistant with Gemini earlier this year, and things have just taken off since then. Now, it's expanding Gemini's power to Wear OS, Google TV, Android Auto, and even Android XR.

To start, Gemini will be integrated into Wear OS, helping users stay on top of things straight from their wrists. During The Android Show, Google showed off how Gemini on Wear OS will help users stay more productive and work hands-free when they're unable to get to the phone.

"Like when your hands are covered in flour while cooking, when you’re rushing between meetings, or when you’re in the middle of a bike ride," Google explained in the press release.

All users need to do is summon Gemini with their voice and give it a command. Google says it doesn't have to be a fully thought-out sentence; it could be as brief as, "Hey Google, remember I’m using locker 43 today.” Or users could even ask Gemini about the restaurant their friend emailed about and get the answer on their wrist, as seen below.

Cars are also getting a Gemini-sized upgrade on Android Auto. While voice commands have been at the center of Android Auto, with Gemini, the tech giant says users can do more on the move.

Gemini, built into Android Auto, will be a more intuitive assistant that can gauge what the user wants "through natural conversations." So instead of hitting on the right response or choosing the right text to send, Gemini will let you do all of that hands-free.

Google says Gemini can find you a location that exactly fits your needs. For instance, you can give it a complex command like, "find me a charging station on the way to the post office that’s also near a park, so that I can go for a walk before your errands while your car is charging."

Furthermore, users can integrate Gemini with their messaging apps to summarize messages and even translate their replies into another language before sending, as seen in the GIF above.

During your morning commute, you can ask Gemini to give you "the rundown of the news today (but without sports), or get a quick synopsis of the book that you didn't get around to finishing before your book club meeting," Google added.

Gemini Live on Android Auto is integrated to translate texts in over 40 languages, and users can edit that message without having to start from scratch, just with a voice command. Gemini will be available on Android Auto "in the coming months, followed by cars with Google," the press release added. This integration will also be shown at Google I/O later this month.

Next, Google TV is also getting a slice of Gemini Live. From asking the TV to play age-appropriate shows or movies for the kids to answering questions about the solar system by pulling up the perfect YouTube video, Google TV is said to go beyond just showcasing entertainment.

Gemini in the world of Android XR

Google is taking Gemini a step further, integrating it into the world of Extended Reality — this includes next-gen devices like XR headsets and smartglasses.

While Google didn't mention anything about its smartglasses that could be in the works, the company confirmed that Gemini will be integrated into Samsung's XR headset, which is set to launch later this year.

Google says that with the Samsung headset and Gemini Live collab, it "can help you do things like plan a vacation by surrounding you with videos, maps, and local tips, creating an entire itinerary in minutes while providing a more," giving a sense that they're already at their vacay spot even before getting on the plane.

Finally, Google hinted that Gemini will be coming to Sony and Samsung's audio systems, "bringing you personalized, powerful, and proactive help—wherever you are, on whatever Android device you’re using."

You can catch all the announcements from The Android Show and get even more in-depth analysis on our exclusive Live Blog.

What you need to know

• The Android Show is bringing a new I/O edition this year, which will provide an in-depth look at everything new with Android.
• The show is expected to go live on May 13 at 1 p.m. ET, ahead of Google I/O this year.
• Hosting the show will be Sameer Samat, President of Android Ecosystem, and members of the Android team.

Looks like something exciting is brewing at Google. The company just dropped a teaser for a new episode of The Android Show.

For the first time, the show will feature an exclusive I/O edition, which is said to provide Android enthusiasts around the globe with a "lowdown on the latest Android innovations and experiences in the run up to Google I/O," the show announced, teasing this episode on the official website.

The episode will air on May 13 at 1 p.m. and will be hosted by Sameer Samat, president of the Android Ecosystem, as well as other Android team members who will discuss new features set to debut with Android 16 and other Android-related developments in the works.

“What's new with Android has always been a huge part of Google I/O, and we know people are excited! That's why we're kicking off this year's I/O season with a special deep dive," Samat added.

The Android Show is a video series produced by the Android Developers team at Google. The show typically launches a new episode every quarter that discusses all things Android, including news, features, and updates.

This I/O episode is unique since Google usually keeps all the new Android developments under wraps until it announces everything at I/O. For it to announce innovations ahead of the main event, it could only mean that they have a lot to discuss on the Android front and are splitting it into two parts, or that I/O will be heavily focused on AI.

Further explaining what folks could expect from this episode, Samat said, "We'll be sharing news now to get you ready for I/O, where we'll have even more special announcements and surprises in store.”

During the MWC this year, Samat hinted at showing off some of Android 16's new features ahead of launch, which we thought would happen at this year's I/O. However, a glimpse at the new OS seems to be coming a week early, and we're not complaining.

Google added that this show will be pre-recorded and streamed on YouTube Live at the above-mentioned time. Those interested can hit the "notify me" button within the teaser (below), so that they don't miss out on the fun.

That said, last week, Google put out a comprehensive lineup of scheduled events and workshops set to take place at Google I/O this year. Users will be given a glimpse into Android's new UX design, Material 3 Expressive, as well as Gemini in Chrome and Android XR.