Google is set to host its yearly Google I/O developer conference next week, focusing heavily on AI. Since the previous conference, they’ve introduced Gemini, a new and more effective model designed to rival OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
They’ve also been working on new features for Search, Google Maps, and Android. This year’s event will likely highlight these developments.
Google I/O starts on Tuesday, May 14th at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET with a keynote presentation. You can watch it on Google’s website or their YouTube channel through a livestream link, which is also at the top of this page.
There is also a version available with an American Sign Language interpreter. Plan to spend a few hours watching, as I/O usually lasts for a couple of hours.
Blink and you’ll miss it 👀 #GoogleIO is coming next week on May 14 at 10 am PT. Tune in for our latest advancements in AI → https://t.co/BJCe4w8BPR pic.twitter.com/fSuKuzxG48
— Google (@Google) May 10, 2024
The company has been experimenting with new search features, such as AI conversation practice for those learning English and image generation for shopping and virtual try-ons.
Google is likely to showcase how it’s transforming smartphones into AI devices, adding more generative AI capabilities to its apps.
For example, they have been developing AI features in Google Maps that assist with dining, shopping, and locating EV charging stations. Additionally, Google is testing a new feature where AI will call a business and hold the line for you until a person is available to speak.
At I/O, Google might introduce a new version of its digital assistant, reportedly named “Pixie.” This Gemini-powered assistant is likely to include multimodal capabilities, such as taking photos of objects to find out how to use them or directions to buy them.
This development might spell trouble for gadgets like the Rabbit R1 and the Human Ai Pin, which were released recently and have found it challenging to prove their worth. Currently, their slight edge might be the difficulty (though not impossibility) of using a smartphone as an AI wearable.
It seems doubtful that Google will emphasize new hardware this year. The Pixel 8A is already up for preorders and the cheaper, relaunched Pixel Tablet is available to buy, though now the magnetic speaker dock is sold separately.
However, Google might still hint at upcoming products like the Pixel 9 — which is already being leaked widely — and the Pixel Tablet 2.
The search giant might also discuss its next version of the Pixel Fold, rumored to be renamed as the Pixel 9 Pro Fold.
What we think?
I think Google I/O 2024 will focus a lot on AI, especially the new Gemini model. They’ll show how AI is used in Google Maps and other apps I’m excited to hear about the new digital assistant, Pixie.
I don’t expect much about new devices like the Pixel 9, but they might give some hints. Overall, it should be an interesting event with lots of updates on AI features.
