Google I/O kicks off this week, and Android has officially taken a backseat to Gemini. After quietly dropping Android's biggest design overhaul in years via YouTube the week before, Google is set to focus the keynote almost entirely on AI upgrades across Chrome, Gmail, and XR. Why it matters: The company's premier developer conference is no longer about mobile OS—it's an all-in bet on AI.
Google just unveiled new Android security features ahead of I/O, using on-device AI in Google Messages to detect crypto, gift card, and tech support scams. Android 16 will also block sideloading during unknown calls, prevent risky accessibility permissions, and lock down stolen phones tighter against factory resets.
Google's first Android 16 developer preview reveals a new "app functions" API designed to let Gemini perform tasks directly inside apps. Instead of just searching your inbox, the assistant could soon order food without you opening a delivery app, mirroring Apple's App Intents roadmap. Why it matters: Mobile AI assistants are finally evolving from conversational chatbots into actionable agents.
