Google I/O 2025 is just around the corner and promises to be full of exciting updates and announcements.
Taking place from May 20 to 21 at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, this year’s event is set to showcase the latest innovations from across Google’s wide range of products. Whether you’re interested in Android, Chrome, YouTube, Google Search, or artificial intelligence (AI), there’s something to look forward to. Most eyes, however, will be on Gemini, Google’s powerful AI chatbot.
Here’s what you can expect from this year’s event.
Big changes coming to Gemini and AI tools
AI continues to be the main focus in the tech world, and Google is not falling behind. The company has been putting a lot of energy and resources into improving its Gemini range of AI models.
Gemini *Ultra* -> Google Gemini might soon offer two new AI subscription plans
— Glenn Gabe (@glenngabe) May 1, 2025
"Evidence from code suggests Google is developing two new, potentially higher-tier AI subscription plans, possibly named "Premium Plus" and "Premium Pro," which could offer access to "Gemini Pro" and… pic.twitter.com/N2oc4VODZg
At I/O 2025, Google is expected to reveal a new and improved version of Gemini Ultra, its top-level AI model. While full details are still under wraps, leaks have suggested that this upgrade will bring more advanced features. The upgrade may also include new pricing plans.
Currently, Google offers one premium subscription for Gemini Advanced at US$20 per month. However, rumours suggest that two new subscription tiers — Premium Plus and Premium Pro — could be launched soon. While Google hasn’t yet confirmed what each plan will include, users might get more tools and features depending on their chosen level.
Google is also likely to discuss Astra, its long-term AI project aimed at creating real-time, multimodal AI agents that can respond more naturally. Another project expected to be mentioned is Project Mariner, which involves AI agents that can take actions for users across the web. Some developers have spotted hints of this in Google’s AI Studio code, including “Computer Use,” which may relate to Mariner.
"Computer use" getting added to AI Studio pic.twitter.com/rQEhcnvUHl
— Bedros Pamboukian (@bedros_p) May 5, 2025
Android 16 and a new design for your phone
For Android users, there’s even more to be excited about. Ahead of I/O, Google will hold a separate event called The Android Show, which will take place one week before the main conference.
Android 16 is expected to be the star of the show. This version is set to bring in a new design style called Material 3 Expressive. According to a leaked blog post from Google, the new design will offer a more dynamic and engaging experience, with features that feel smoother and respond more quickly to your touch. The look and feel of Android will be getting a major refresh.
Beyond the design, Android 16 is focused on improving your everyday experience. Some of the key updates include better notifications, support for Auracast (to help switch between Bluetooth devices more easily), lock screen widgets, and new accessibility tools to help more users interact comfortably with their devices.
Google may also highlight new features for Android XR, its platform for mixed reality, and Wear OS, which powers smartwatches and other wearables.
More updates from across Google’s ecosystem
The official I/O schedule gives a sneak peek into what else will be covered at the event. Expect sessions on Chrome, Google Cloud, Google Play, Android development tools, and Gemma — Google’s open AI models for developers.
Last year, Google surprised viewers with a few unexpected AI announcements. One was LearnLM, a group of models aimed at helping students and teachers. This year, we could see an upgrade to NotebookLM, Google’s AI tool that turns notes into useful summaries and insights. A new feature called “Video Overviews” has also been spotted in leaked code, which may use Google’s Veo 2 video model to create short video summaries.
Whether you’re a developer, a tech fan, or just curious about what’s next, Google I/O 2025 will be a key event. Keep an eye out for the keynote presentations and deep-dive sessions — there’s sure to be a lot of news to unpack.
