May 21, 2025, 10:25 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Google unveiled new AI tools at the I/O. The company aims to enhance Google Search with an AI mode and introduce 3D video conferencing with Google Beam. Updates for Google Meet, Gemini, and more were also announced. TECHBOOK summarizes the innovations from this year’s Google I/O.
Some might have been a bit surprised when Google held a special show for Android a few days ago. Now it’s clear why: The Google I/O was meant to focus on AI, while the Android Show was almost exclusively about the operating system. In addition to many AI innovations that will interest developers and programmers, Google also presented some tangible new features during the I/O keynote on May 20 that we can all use now or soon.
Overview
In the battle for the best internet search, Google is launching the next stage with the AI mode, where user queries are broken down into various individual aspects that the software researches separately. This results in more relevant answers, said Liz Reid, the Google manager responsible for web search. The AI mode is also set to learn, for example, by taking over purchase advice when searching for a home appliance.
Google Beam turns video conferencing into a 3D experience
Google is working with HP on Beam, a 3D video platform that aims to elevate video chats using cameras and AI. At its core, Beam consists of a frame with six cameras that capture the person in the video call; AI then models a 3D person from the individual perspectives. According to Google, this happens in real-time and at 60 FPS (frames per second). The first Beam devices are expected to be delivered to selected customers soon; Google did not disclose a price.
Google Meet gets live simultaneous translations via AI
Google Meet users will soon be able to converse with people worldwide without knowing their respective languages. Google is adding an AI translation feature to Meet. This feature will not only translate quickly enough for seamless conversation but also analyze the speaker’s tone and intent to mimic them as accurately as possible, making conversations more natural. Initially, the AI in Google Meet will translate English and Spanish, with more languages to follow soon.
Read also: Popular route planner feature from Google Maps disappeared
Gemini Live Camera for Android and iOS
Say it with images: Instead of always feeding an AI with words, you can use Google’s Gemini Live Camera with your smartphone. For example, if you point the camera at an object, the AI recognizes it and provides information, such as the species of an animal or, during a repair, which screw or tool to use. Previously, Gemini Live Camera was only available for selected Pixel smartphones. Now, the tool is coming as part of the Gemini app for Android and iOS.
Gemini brings AI to Google Chrome and Gmail
Google will now equip the Chrome browser with Gemini. The AI will have its own section within the browser and will be able to analyze websites or provide summaries of page content upon request.
Example: If you open a page with a recipe, Gemini can check the content for potential diet issues. Initially, the feature will only work in the currently open browser tab; later, a multi-tab analysis will be possible. The update is initially available only in the U.S., with rollout to other regions and languages to follow. Additionally, Chrome will be able to automatically detect compromised passwords and replace them with new, uncracked codes thanks to AI.
Google is also enhancing Gmail with Gemini’s AI features. The tool can delete emails on command or search for useful information within emails. Gemini in Gmail can also schedule a potential appointment from an email and send the proposal to the recipient. The new features will be available to all registered Google Workspace users starting this summer.
Read also: What is Gemini Live and how does it work on smartphones?
The Most Exciting Innovations from Google’s Android Show
Android Auto Finally Gets a Video Player
Using all AI tools will be expensive
Google is charging for access: Those who want to use all of the search engine company’s AI tools without restrictions will have to pay $250 per month. According to Google, this includes additional services such as YouTube Premium and access to 30 terabytes of Google Drive cloud storage. A small consolation: New customers who choose the pricing plan will pay only half for the first three months.
Android XR – Google is ready, who else?
With Android XR and compatible glasses, Google aims to offer an alternative to competing products like Meta’s Quest or Apple’s Vision Pro. During the Google I/O, the company showcased Xreal’s Project Aura, the second pair of glasses ready for Android XR. Last year, Samsung presented an XR headset with Project Moohan, and now a real pair of glasses. However, many details are still unknown. It is only known that a Snapdragon processor powers the Aura glasses. According to Google, everything is ready to make Android XR a success. Only the right applications are missing.