Google previews Android Halo to show live AI agent activity

Google has previewed a new Android feature called Android Halo, designed to provide users with real-time visibility into the activity of AI agents on their smartphones. The feature was announced at the company's annual developer conference, Google I/O, and is scheduled for release later this year.

Android Halo addresses a common user frustration: the lack of clear feedback when an AI assistant is working autonomously in the background on tasks like booking travel, summarizing emails, or conducting research. The system places a subtle, persistent status indicator at the top of the screen, visible regardless of which app is in use. This indicator, shown in a preview as a glowing circle or spark icon, signals when an agent is processing a task, enters a live interaction mode, or sends a message.

The primary goal is to offer what Google describes as "at-a-glance visibility," allowing users to monitor AI workflows without interrupting their current activity or needing to switch back to a dedicated assistant app. Officials stated this transparency is intended to build trust as AI agents become more capable of handling complex, multi-step tasks.

The feature will debut in conjunction...