What to know

  • Google will host 'The Android Show: I/O Edition' on May 13 at 10 AM PT/1 PM ET, a week before Google I/O 2025
  • The event will be hosted by Sameer Samat, President of the Android Ecosystem, and stream on YouTube and Android's website
  • This separate event suggests Google I/O will focus heavily on AI, particularly Gemini, while giving Android proper attention

Google has announced a significant change to its annual developer conference schedule. For the first time, Android updates will get their own dedicated event before the main Google I/O conference.

The company will host "The Android Show: I/O Edition" on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 10 AM PT/1 PM ET. This virtual event will stream on YouTube and the official Android website, featuring Sameer Samat, President of the Android Ecosystem, as host.

This scheduling decision comes a full week before Google I/O 2025, which begins on May 20. The move strongly suggests that the main I/O keynotes will focus heavily on Google's AI advancements, particularly around its Gemini models and initiatives like Project Astra.

Google frames this change as a way to give both platforms adequate attention. "What's new with Android has always been a huge part of Google I/O, and we know people are excited," said Samat. "That's why we're kicking off this year's I/O season with a special deep-dive."

The company promises to share Android news during this special event "to get you ready for I/O," while still reserving "even more special announcements and surprises" for the main conference. The YouTube description teases "exciting updates coming to Android."

This shift marks a significant change in Google's approach. In recent years, Android updates have taken a backseat to AI announcements at I/O. By giving Android its own showcase, Google ensures its mobile operating system receives proper attention while allowing the main conference to focus on AI developments.

Interestingly, Google has already released the final major Android 16 Beta a month before the conference. It remains unclear how Google will divide announcements between the two events - which updates will appear at The Android Show versus which will be saved for the global stage of I/O.

From early session listings, we know I/O will cover Material 3 Expressive, Android XR, Android 16 for TV, and Gemini in Android Auto/Automotive. These developer-oriented announcements may remain at the main conference, while The Android Show could feature more consumer-facing features closer to launch.

You can set a reminder for The Android Show: I/O Edition at android.com/io25.

Via: theverge.com