Join me, C. Scott Brown from Android Authority, as I bring you the latest and most exciting updates straight from Google I/O 2025 in Mountain View, California. This year’s event is unlike any previous edition, with a sharp focus on artificial intelligence reshaping the whole landscape of Google’s announcements. In this article, I’ll walk you through the highlights, answer your burning questions, and share my hands-on experiences with some groundbreaking tech unveiled during the show.
Table of Contents
- 🔍 The New Direction of Google I/O: AI Takes Center Stage
- 🕶️ Android XR Glasses: When Will They Be Available?
- 🎨 Android 16’s Expressive Design: What to Expect
- 💡 Highlight Product: AI Mode in Google Search
- 🎥 Introducing Flow: Google’s Generative AI Video Creation Platform
- 💰 Google AI Ultra and Pro Subscriptions: Pricing and Perks
- 📡 Google Beam: A Glimpse into the Future of Video Calls
- 🤖 Experiencing the Future at Google I/O
- ❓ FAQ
- Stay Tuned for More!
🔍 The New Direction of Google I/O: AI Takes Center Stage
Historically, Google I/O has been the go-to event for all things Google — from hardware launches and Android updates to product announcements related to Gmail, YouTube, and business tools. But this year, artificial intelligence dominates the entire conversation, leaving little room for the usual Android-centric content.
For the first time in years, Android has been split off into its own dedicated show, which happened just a week prior to I/O. The main keynote barely mentioned Android at all, signaling a new era where Google’s hyper-focus on AI will likely continue to shape future events.
Walking around the venue, you can feel this shift palpably. The Android booth is minimal, while AI, cloud services, and Gemini stations flood the space, emphasizing the company’s commitment to AI-driven innovation.
🕶️ Android XR Glasses: When Will They Be Available?
One of the most anticipated questions I received was about the Android XR glasses. I had the chance to try these prototypes firsthand, and they are genuinely impressive. This product marks a collaboration between three giants in the Android ecosystem: Samsung, Qualcomm, and Google. Samsung is crafting the hardware, Qualcomm provides the silicon inside, and Google develops the Android XR software platform.
The experience is smooth and practical. For instance, turn-by-turn navigation overlays show directions right in your field of vision. A simple tilt of your head reveals instructions as if they were projected onto the ground. Notifications also pop up seamlessly, allowing you to interact with Gemini, Google’s AI assistant embedded in the glasses, for quick responses or dismissals.
However, Google remains tight-lipped about the release date and pricing. Given that the device is still a prototype, I estimate a retail launch might not happen until next year or possibly the year after. More hardware partners like X Real, Warby Parker, and Gentle Gorilla are joining the Android XR ecosystem, signaling strong momentum, but the wait continues.
Alongside the XR glasses, Samsung’s Project Nuhan headset is expected to launch this year, but details on pricing, availability, and official branding remain undisclosed. Unlike the XR glasses designed for on-the-go use, Project Nuhan is intended for home use, offering a different kind of immersive experience.
🎨 Android 16’s Expressive Design: What to Expect
Android 16 is receiving a fresh look with an expressive iteration of Google’s Material You design language, known as Material 3. This design system creates a cohesive visual experience across Google products like Chrome, Pixel phones, and Android TV.
The new expressive version adds more flair and customization options. Notably, the quick settings tiles can now be resized—smaller or larger—similar to what the Nothing phone offers. This level of customization addresses the common complaint of limited quick setting space, allowing users to tailor their interface to their liking.
For those eager to try it out, the Android 16 QPR Beta 1 is available now on Pixel phones. I recommend installing it on a secondary device since it’s still in beta, but it’s a great way to preview the upcoming UI changes.
💡 Highlight Product: AI Mode in Google Search
The absence of hardware announcements this year shifts the spotlight onto software, especially AI-powered features. The standout for most users is AI Mode within Google Search, currently available in the United States through Search Labs.
This feature revolutionizes how you search by allowing you to input complex queries spanning multiple criteria simultaneously. For example, I asked AI Mode to find a smartphone under $800 with a great camera, running Android, and available in the U.S. Instead of juggling dozens of tabs, AI Mode compiles relevant options, reviews, buy links, and explanations in one easy-to-read summary.
The recommendations were spot-on, including phones like the Pixel 9a, Galaxy S25, and OnePlus 13R—all highly rated by trusted reviewers. AI Mode doesn’t just rely on flashy AI jargon; it genuinely simplifies and enhances everyday search experiences.
🎥 Introducing Flow: Google’s Generative AI Video Creation Platform
Another exciting innovation I experienced is Flow, a brand-new generative AI video editing platform. Unlike traditional editors like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro, Flow creates video clips from text prompts rather than camera footage.
Previously, Google’s AI video tools were limited to silent, short clips. With the new VO3 update announced at I/O, Flow can generate clips with music, sound effects, and dialogue. At the keynote, Google showcased a beautifully animated owl and badger conversation, complete with a British accent, all created from AI-generated text prompts. It was so polished it looked like a DreamWorks or Pixar production.
Creating videos this way is time-intensive—each clip can take between 2 to 10 minutes to render depending on length and complexity. Producing a full-length film would require hundreds of hours of prompting and tweaking, but the technology is undeniably groundbreaking. In a few years, we might be able to generate entire movies with a few text commands.
💰 Google AI Ultra and Pro Subscriptions: Pricing and Perks
Google also unveiled two subscription tiers for accessing its AI services. The premium tier, Google AI Ultra, costs a hefty $250 per month and includes:
- 30 terabytes of Google One storage
- YouTube Premium
- Access to Gemini AI services, including Flow
For most users, the more reasonable option is Google AI Pro, priced at $20 per month. This plan offers Gemini Advanced capabilities but comes with less storage and no YouTube Premium.
While the Ultra plan’s price tag is steep, it caters to enthusiasts and professionals eager to explore Google’s full AI ecosystem.
📡 Google Beam: A Glimpse into the Future of Video Calls
Google Beam, developed in partnership with HP, is a futuristic enterprise-focused video conferencing system based on Project Starline technology. It creates a semi-three-dimensional video call experience that makes it feel like the person you’re talking to is sitting right across the table.
The device is large—about the size of a television—to accommodate a life-sized human image. This makes it impractical for everyday consumers but ideal for corporate boardrooms, schools, libraries, and other professional environments.
Given the size and complexity, it’s expected to be quite expensive, potentially costing around $10,000. While it’s unlikely to impact general consumers anytime soon, it offers a fascinating look at the future of remote communication.
🤖 Experiencing the Future at Google I/O
Google I/O is truly a window into the future. Beyond the announcements, I had the unique opportunity to control a robot with my voice, directing its arms to pick up and move objects—a glimpse into how AI and robotics will evolve.
Trying out prototypes like the Android XR glasses and Project Nuhan headset, which aren’t even available yet, made the event feel like a hands-on experience with tomorrow’s technology. Compared to typical smartphone launches, Google I/O offers a deeper, more immersive preview of what’s coming next.
If you haven’t already, I highly recommend watching the full keynote and exploring the many sessions available online. For more detailed coverage and updates, be sure to visit androidauthority.com where we break down all the latest Google I/O announcements, including how you can try AI Mode in Google Search right now.
❓ FAQ
When will the Android XR glasses be available for purchase?
Google has not provided a specific release date. Given the current prototype status, a retail launch is likely not until 2026 or later.
Can I try the new expressive design of Android 16 now?
Yes, the Android 16 QPR Beta 1 with the expressive Material 3 design is available for Pixel phones. It’s recommended to install it on a secondary device due to its beta status.
What is AI Mode in Google Search, and how can I access it?
AI Mode enables complex, multi-criteria searches with summarized results. It’s currently available in the U.S. through Search Labs by opting in on Google.com.
What is Google Beam, and is it for consumers?
Google Beam is an enterprise-level 3D video conferencing system and is not designed for general consumer use due to its size and cost.
How much does Google AI Ultra subscription cost, and what does it include?
The Google AI Ultra subscription costs $250 per month and includes 30TB of Google One storage, YouTube Premium, and full access to Gemini AI services like Flow.
Is there a more affordable AI subscription from Google?
Yes, Google AI Pro is available for $20 per month, offering advanced Gemini AI features with less storage and no YouTube Premium.
Stay Tuned for More!
Thanks for joining me on this journey through Google I/O 2025. We have one more exciting video coming soon that dives even deeper into the innovations unveiled here, so stay tuned to the Android Authority YouTube channel for that. Until then, keep exploring and embracing the future of technology!
