Google will be drawing the curtains of their newest products. Before the big I/O event, Google presents The Android Show, which talks about everything about Android.
So, what were the things announced for Android 16?
Material 3 Expressive. This is Google making the Android UI more vibrant and modern. It features new typography, animations, and colors. Google themselves said they aimed to design an OS that is more fun as they appeal to young people, who seem to be more invested in the competition.
More Gemini integration. Google is really speeding up the integration of Gemini across its products. First it was in the Workspace, now it’s coming for other Google apps, including Wear OS and Android Auto. Basically, anything Google Assistant can do, Gemini can do, but in theory, better, using natural language as Gemini should be able to interpret what you tell it.
Google TVs are not spared from the tidal wave of AI. Yes, you read that right, Gemini is also coming for your Google TVs. You would be able to ask for recommendations and ask for more information. Google has also mentioned Android XR, which is their VR platform, though they haven’t elaborated on anything and more info will come in I/O. But it’s interesting to see what kind of VR with a dedicated platform will be unraveled.
Also coming with Android 16 are improved security features, such as spam detection with AI, sending verifications to people who are on the phone with you to confirm they are who they say they are, especially now even voice and videos can be faked.
Find Hub is also a new feature that will help you keep track of all your Android devices. This will make use of satellite signals, so even if your device has no cell signals, the Find features will continue to function.
Google will be announcing more products and developments on Google I/O, which will kick off on May 20 to 23.