Get ready to dive into the future! Google I/O 2024, which is in two days. This annual developer conference usually reveals cutting-edge achievements. This year promises to be no different. There are whispers of a groundbreaking Android update and the next iteration of Google’s powerful AI. We can see a lot of other innovations as well.
What revolutionary messages will grace the stage? How will Android 15 change our mobile experience? Let’s give you an idea of what you can expect from the upcoming Google I/O 2024 event.
Android 15 – Google’s next mobile operating system
The next big Android update, which is already in beta testing, will be a highlight of Google I/O 2024. This is our chance to see the features that the reports have spoken about or hidden behind the curtain.
Google will demonstrate a wide range of functionalities. This includes satellite messaging, a feature many have been waiting for. We can too take a look new lock screen widgets designed for tablets and advances in battery health monitoring. Additionallythere are rumors about the Personal Space feature for save hidden apps and data.
While a specific Android 15 release date is unlikely, Google I/O will likely offer a timeframe. Based on past launches, October seems like a reasonable guess.
Google Pixel Fold 2
The Pixel Fold, Google’s first attempt at a foldable device, debuted at I/O 2023. Whispers of a successor, the Pixel Fold 2, are already spreading.
This year’s conference could offer a tantalizing look at the Fold 2. Leaks suggest a sleeker design, a new screen ratio and a change to the camera layout on both sides. But the real game changer could be the Tensor G4 hearing processor. That would put the Fold 2 ahead of the Pixel 8 series with its G3 chip. A potential RAM upgrade from 12GB to 16GB could further improve performance.
But full disclosure may not be in the cards. Some rumors point to an October launch and a possible name change – the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. This will bring the device in line with the upcoming flagships. Regardless of the moniker, Google I/O 2024 may only provide a taste of the Fold 2. So we’ll have to wait full photo.
Google may show many AI improvements at I/O 2024
Google I/O 2024 is a landmark event for artificial intelligence. There is a strong focus on Gemini, Google’s powerful generative AI. We i can expect to hear about exciting upgrades and its expansion into new areas.
One rumor gaining traction is “Pixie,” an AI assistant based on Gemini. This it could potentially be exclusive to Pixel 9 devices. While details of the Pixel 9 lineup remain under wraps, Pixie’s developer preview now paves the way for future support.
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Besides Pixie, the future of Google Assistant depends on Gemini. We may see Gemini take on more responsibilities. This includes smart home management that can replace Assistant. This transition requires compatibility with existing smart home devices. So this could lead to a refresh of Google Nest speakers and displays later this year. Code hinting at unreleased Nest hardware found in the Google Home app adds to that speculation. The last one though major Nest’s second-generation Nest Hub product launched in 2021.
Wear OS 5 – Google’s next operating system for smartwatches
With Pixel Watch already in its second generation, Google has a clear incentive to keep developing Wear OS. An I/O developer session titled “Advancing Watch Face Shape” hinted at a potential Wear OS update.
This refresh is likely overdue, reflecting the Google Nest hardware situation. Wear OS 4 currently runs on Android 13, while many devices have been enjoying Android 14 for months. While an update bringing Wear OS in line with Android 15 may be difficult, some improvements seem very likely.
Google TV and Android TV
News about Google’s smart TV platforms remains tight-lipped. But an I/O session gives hope. The session title invites developers to explore “new improvements to the Google TV user experience and the latest additions to the next update to the Android TV OS platform.” This offers updates for both platforms, though the improvements may be modest.
Rumors, courtesy of 9to5Google, hint at a potential 4K Chromecast upgrade. This could include a faster processor, increased RAM and storage, or even a redesigned remote. Given that the current model debuted in 2020, an update seems overdue, especially if it includes support for future Gemini functionality.
What else can you expect?
While the highlights discussed so far are sure to generate excitement, Google I/O 2024 is known to throw up a few surprises. Here are some additional areas to keep an eye on:
Google’s core business and services
Google will likely tap its advertising business, the lifeblood of many free services. Updates to Gmail, Google Maps and other core offerings are also on the table.
The AR/VR conundrum
Google has had a rather controversial past with Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies. After the failed Google Glass project, players like Meta and Apple took the lead. While a surprise headphone reveal isn’t impossible, advancements in technology — especially price, size, and battery life — may be necessary before Google makes seriously return to this space.
Hardware fragments
Don’t hold your breath for in-depth discussions about the Pixel 9 series, the second-generation Pixel Tablet, or the Pixel Watch 3. Google typically reveals its flagship hardware later in the fall. But a teaser or two might pique our curiosity.
