Google I/O 2025: How to watch and what the event schedule tells us

As the days grow longer and spring blooms burst into color, tech enthusiasts know it's time for the annual pilgrimage to the world of innovation—conference season. Among the most anticipated events is Google I/O, and it's right around the corner.

When is Google I/O?

Mark your calendars for May 20 and 21, as Google I/O will unfold at the iconic Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California. The excitement kicks off with the keynote at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET on the first day, where Google's top brass will unveil the latest and greatest in hardware and software.

Also: Google's One AI Premium plan with Gemini Advanced is now free for students—for an entire year.

Google/ZDNET

How to watch Google I/O

Can't make it in person? No worries—Google has you covered with a live stream of the event. While the link isn't live yet, keep an eye on the Google keynote landing page as the event approaches to catch the action. Developers, you can sign up for the digital experience on the Google I/O landing page at no cost. This gets you perks like email updates and access to on-demand sessions. Even if you don't register, you can still tune into the keynotes and sessions, though you'll miss out on the extra communications and recommendations.

And if you're looking for real-time coverage, ZDNET will be on the ground, so stay tuned to their site for the latest updates.

Sabrina Ortiz/ZDNET

What to expect from Google I/O

Google's teaser for the keynote is tantalizingly vague: "Discover how we're furthering our mission to organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful." But let's read between the lines.

AI

Given the buzz around AI this year, it's a safe bet that it will take center stage. Last year's I/O was dominated by AI, with announcements like Gemini 1.5 Flash, Veo, Imagen 3, and updates to Android. Expect more of the same, with a spotlight on the latest AI advancements.

Also: Google reveals Gemini 2.5 Flash, its 'most cost-efficient thinking model.'

Android 16

Android 16 is on the horizon, and Google I/O is the perfect stage to showcase its new features. We're likely to see a host of new AI capabilities, updates to Gemini, Google Workspace, Google Search, and perhaps even a new large language model.

Also: Android 16 release is way ahead of schedule—and here's why.

Agents

AI agents are the talk of the town, and Google is expected to expand its offerings. Currently, this includes Google Research, which can scour the web and compile detailed reports for you, and Gems, Google's custom AI agents.

Also: Google Workspace gets a slew of new AI features. Here's how they can help your daily workflow.

XR headset

While Google might hold off on hardware announcements, there's a chance we'll get an update on their much-anticipated XR headset, developed in collaboration with Samsung. Google I/O loves a surprise, so expect the unexpected.

Also: Here's the Android XR headset that Google and Samsung are releasing in 2025—and the software that powers it.

Google/ZDNET

I/O 2025 events schedule

For a sneak peek at what's in store, check out the event schedule already posted online. While the descriptions are intentionally vague, you can expect announcements related to Android, AI, Chrome, and Google Cloud.

Also: Why I just added Gemini 2.5 Pro to the very short list of AI tools I pay for.

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