Google I/O 2026: How to watch it online for free and what to expect

HIGHLIGHTS

Google I/O 2026 keynote streams free on YouTube at 10:30 PM IST.

Gemini AI is getting smarter with new agentic features.

Android 17 and XR smart glasses are the headline at Google I/O 2026.

Google I/O 2026 is all set to kick off starting tomorrow, May 19, and Google is going all in on AI. This year’s developer conference is set to be one of the most AI-heavy editions yet. So far we know that we’ll be getting an even smarter Gemini, along with that, we’re also getting a new look at the latest Android 17, along with more details on the XR smart glasses. Safe to say that there is plenty to look forward to. Let’s take a look at how you can watch the event for completely free and everything you need to know before tuning in.

Also Read: Xiaomi 17T series global launch date confirmed, will it launch in India?

How to watch Google I/O 2026 online for free

Let’s first take a look at how you can actually watch Google I/O 2026. The event will be held at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California, and it is running from May 19 to 20. The keynote begins at 10 AM PT, which translates to 10:30 PM IST for viewers in India.

The good news is that you do not need to buy a subscription to watch the event. Google will be livestreaming the entire keynote for free on YouTube and on the official Google I/O website. Given the timing, even if you miss the live broadcast, all sessions and presentations will also be available to watch later shortly after. 

What to expect at I/O 2026

Moving on, let’s take a look at what to expect from Google I/O 2026. It is being suggested that Gemini will be centre stage this year. Reports suggest that Google will unveil Gemini with an updated version of its AI model with faster performance and more agentic capabilities. This means that it could complete tasks without you having to do anything.

The other big highlight this time around is going to be Android 17. While the beta releases have already given us a preview of what to expect from the upcoming Android OS, but the keynote should reveal the full picture. So far, we know that the OS will include floating app bubbles, more privacy controls and even deeper AI integration all around.

Last but not least, there’s also some good news for hardware fans, as reports suggest there’s something happening for Android XR smart glasses. They’re likely to come with features like live translation, Gemini support and heads-up notifications built in. Google is also expected to discuss their latest laptop line, the Googlebook, in depth.

Also Read: Samsung Galaxy S26 price slashed by over Rs 14,100 just few months after launch

Madhav Banka

Madhav is the most flexible guy at Digit. He covers news, branded and feature stories ranging from consumer tech to video games and even appliances. He has been writing about tech and video games since 2020, back when he was just 14. While not busy working, you'll usually find him roaming around Delhi NCR in hopes of getting good pictures, playing video games or watching films during the weekend.

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