Android is getting a big AI overhaul in 2026

Google and SpaceX are in talks to build data centers in orbit, pitching space as the future home for AI compute, even as costs today remain far higher than on the ground.

Google unveiled its new AI-first Googlebooks laptops, more agentic Gemini features, vibe-coded Android widgets, Gemini in Chrome, refreshed Android Auto, and more ahead of I/O.

Google has revealed its vision for the AI laptop of tomorrow.

Tech firm to expand AI capabilities of high-end devices with Gemini Intelligence and says new range of laptops on the way Google has announced a range of features coming to Android phones this year, including a new Gemini Intelligence AI system and a tool to help users avoid distracting apps. Revealed in a livestreamed “Android Show” event, the free upgrades are scheduled to arrive in waves over the next year for high-end new and old phones alike, including Samsung and Pixel devices. Google also revealed that a new lineup of laptops will arrive in the autumn. Continue reading...

Gemini Intelligence will also include Gboard based dictation and form filling capabilities

The new feature will first launch on the latest Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones this summer.

AI-generated widgets are among the features coming to Android this year. | Screenshot: Google Would it shock you to hear that Android 17 is filled with new AI-enabled features, like improved dictation and vibe-coded widgets? Fortunately, that's not all. The platform is getting non-AI updates too, from an emoji overhaul to a new screentime tool that helps you avoid distracting apps. Google has just revealed the biggest changes coming in its next OS update as part of its dedicated Android Show, ahead of next week's big I/O developer conference. The Android software updates came alongside a tease of upcoming Android-powered Googlebook laptops and a host of Android Auto updates. Here are all the new updates that matter and when you can … Read the full story at The Verge.

Gemini Intelligence comes with a Liquid Glass-ish visual treatment. | Image: Google It is, once again, Gemini season. Google is announcing a host of new Gemini features during its pre-I/O Android showcase, many of which aim to help use your phone for you. You'll find Gemini in more places, like Chrome on Android, in your autofill suggestions, and all up in your apps - if you want. Google also has a new name for us to remember, because it just can't help itself: Gemini Intelligence. It "brings the very best of Gemini to our most advanced Android devices," according to Google's director of Android experiences, Ben Greenwood. Google is bundling some existing and new Gemini features under this name, and seems to be reserving t … Read the full story at The Verge.