Google I/O 2024 to take place next week: Expected announcements
What's the story
The annual Google I/O developer conference is set to reveal the tech giant's ambitious plans for the year ahead. The inaugural keynote, which is scheduled for May 14, is expected to delve into the features of Android 15, as well as various AI enhancements. However, a comprehensive overview of the firm's newest flagship hardware, may not be available until later this year.
Insights
Android 15: A sneak peek into new features
The initial betas of Android 15 have been released, showcasing an array of new features. These include an enhanced Privacy Sandbox, system-level app archiving for space optimization, partial screen sharing, improved satellite connectivity, extra in-app camera controls, and a novel power efficiency mode. Google has confirmed that further details about Android 15 will be revealed at the conference.
Anticipation
What else will the new OS offer?
The conference may reveal more about the upcoming satellite messaging feature for Android. Other potential updates could include lock screen widgets for tablets, an 'At a Glance' widget for phones, a status bar redesign, and advanced battery health monitoring. There are also speculations about the reintroduction of wake words for third-party assistants like Alexa and ChatGPT, along with a new feature named Private Space, that will allow users to hide data and apps.
AI developments
Google's focus on AI
AI is expected to be a significant focus at the conference. Google is tipped to discuss Gemini AI, which could potentially replace Assistant. In December, reports surfaced that Google was developing an AI assistant named Pixie for Pixel devices. Pixie, based on Gemini, might break cover in the Pixel 9 later this year. The conference may also cover updates related to generative AI for key Google products like Search, Chrome, Maps, and G Suite.
Applications
AI's role in accessibility and ad targeting
The event is expected to delve into AI-backed accessibility features and health projects. With Google delaying its plan to phase out third-party cookies in Chrome, AI could be proposed as an alternative solution for ad targeting. The I/O schedule suggests that other topics such as advancements in Wear OS's Watch Face Format, updates to Google TV and Android TV, and developments in quantum computing will also be explored.