Android Show I/O Edition 2026: Googlebooks to smarter Gemini AI and Android 17 upgrades, everything Google announced

HIGHLIGHTS

Google introduced Gemini-powered “Googlebooks” laptops in partnership with brands like Acer and Lenovo.

Gemini is getting more agentic features, including multi-app actions, webpage summarisation and AI-generated widgets.

Android 17 will bring deeper theft protection, easier iPhone-to-Android transfers and redesigned Android Auto features.

Ahead of Google IO 2026, Sundar Pichai-led company has hosted its Android Show. During the event, the search giant announced a variety of Android and Gemini-focused announcements. The company introduced new AI-powered tools, upgraded Android features, enhanced security systems and even a brand-new category of Gemini-first laptops called Googlebooks. Here is everything that was announced at the Android Show 2026.

  1. Google introduces Gemini-powered Googlebooks

First and foremost among the biggest announcements was Googlebooks. It is a new laptop category that is specifically designed around Gemini AI experiences. Google said it is collaborating with brands like Acer, Asus, Dell, HP and Lenovo to launch the first models later this year. These laptops are said to come with deep Gemini integration, including a Magic Pointer cursor powered by AI, Android phone syncing features and support for custom widgets.

  1. Create My Widget brings AI-generated widgets

Users will reportedly be able to specify the type of widget they want, and Gemini will create it. For example, users can request that Gemini create a dashboard with weekly meal prep suggestions, reminders, and fitness updates. The feature is expected to be available first on Samsung Galaxy phones and Google Pixel devices later this summer.

  1. Android Auto gets a major redesign

During the show, the company also showcased and promised new features related to the new interface with support for widgets, edge-to-edge layouts and improved compatibility. The company also confirmed that video apps like YouTube will support full-HD 60fps playback in compatible vehicles later this year. Gemini AI is also rolling out more broadly on Android Auto, allowing drivers to interact with the assistant hands-free for navigation, brainstorming and daily tasks.

  1. Google adds new creator-focused features

There’s also something for creators. The company has announced a new Screen Reactions tool for Android creators. It will record both the user and the device’s screen in real time, similar to the short form reaction videos found on YouTube and Instagram.

The company also announced an agreement with Meta to improve Instagram uploads on Android. To improve video quality on social media, Android devices will receive features such as Ultra HDR, native stabilisation, and improved night mode support.

  1. Gemini gets smarter with agentic AI features

Of course, the Android Show had discussions about Agentic AI. Gemini will now have multi-app capabilities, just as Apple demonstrated at WWDC last year. The company has also demonstrated how the assistant can understand data from one app and perform actions across multiple apps automatically.

Users can, for example, upload an event flyer and request that Gemini look up bookings, ticket information, or related services online. The company also demonstrated shopping-related tasks in which Gemini could automatically create grocery carts from on-screen lists.

  1. Gemini in Chrome expands to Android

After debuting on desktop and iOS, Gemini in Chrome is now available on Android devices as well. The feature will allow users to summarise webpages, ask questions about online content, and even automate certain browsing tasks. Google also teased an experimental auto-browsing feature that can book tickets and navigate websites for users.

  1. Gboard gets smarter dictation tools

Google has announced Rambler, a new dictation experience within Gboard. The AI-powered tool automatically cleans up spoken sentences by removing unnecessary words like “um” and “ah.” It can also intelligently correct speech in real time if users make changes while speaking.

  1. Android adds easier iPhone transfer tools

Google is also easing the transition from iPhone to Android. Passwords, photos, messages, apps, contacts, eSIM data, and even home screen layouts can now be imported directly from iPhones thanks to a new transfer system. The feature is expected to be available first on Samsung Galaxy and Pixel smartphones later this year.

  1. Google expands Android security protections

Google also announced deeper anti-theft and security features for Android devices. Theft Detection Lock and Remote Lock will be enabled by default on Android 17 devices. Pixel smartphones with Advanced Protection enabled will also receive intrusion logging tools to help detect spyware attacks and device compromise attempts.

Ashish Singh

Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. He's been wrangling tech jargon since 2020 (Times Internet, Jagran English '22). When not policing commas, he's likely fueling his gadget habit with coffee, strategising his next virtual race, or plotting a road trip to test the latest in-car tech. He speaks fluent Geek.

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