How to watch Google's ‘The Android Show' and what to expect from Android 16 and Wear OS 6
Just a week ahead of I/O 2025, Google is hosting a special 'The Android Show' on May 13, where the company is most likely to unveil the next iterations of Android and Wear OS. The show will be live-streamed on YouTube, enabling Android enthusiasts from around the world to get first-hand information about all the changes and new features coming to Android 16 and Wear OS 6.
The Android Show: I/O Edition will stream live on Google's Android YouTube channel, starting at 10:30 PM IST.
The highlight of this show will be the next iteration of Android — Android 16. According to leaks and rumours, this version is expected to revamp the entire UI with more customisation options and the next generation of the Material UI design. Android 16, at least on Google Pixel smartphones, is rumoured to include features like a redesigned and highly customizable quick settings panel. It is also expected to introduce iOS 17-like Live Activities, allowing delivery and ride-hailing apps to provide real-time updates without occupying the entire screen.
Additionally, Android 16 may introduce a new desktop mode — a feature likely limited to high-end devices — enabling users to dock their phone to a monitor and use it like a desktop computer, similar to Samsung DeX. We could also expect to see new privacy and security related updates to world's most popular smartphone operating system.
We may also see some of the new AI experiences Google has been developing, along with deeper integration of Gemini across the operating system.
Google is also expected to announce Wear OS 6, which will roll out to select Pixel Watches and Galaxy Watches in the coming days. Most of the UI changes are likely to remain exclusive to Pixel Watches, as brands like Samsung typically use their own custom skin on top of Wear OS. Lastly, we may also see new features for Android for Cars.
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