Google Announces Android Show IO Edition

Google announced on Tuesday that it will host "The Android Show IO Edition," a dedicated livestream event for Android updates, one week ahead of its annual developer conference, Google I/O. The show is scheduled for May 12 at 10 a.m. PT (1 p.m. ET) and will stream for free on YouTube and the Android homepage.

The event continues a tradition started last year, when Google used a similar pre-I/O showcase to unveil design updates like Material 3 Expressive for Android and Wear OS, as well as new Gemini features such as screen sharing. Company representatives described 2026 as "one of the biggest years for Android yet," signaling significant developments for the mobile operating system.

Attendees and viewers can expect details on Android 17, which has been in public beta testing. The update introduces features including the ability to run apps in resizable "bubble" windows for improved multitasking, options to remap gaming controllers, and enhanced screen recording capabilities. While betas have highlighted these changes, Google has not detailed additional untested features that may debut at the show.

The Android Show also comes amid growing interest in Android XR, Google's platform...