Google I/O 2024 Preview: Building an AI-First Google Company

At the 2016 and 2017 I/O conferences, Google's CEO Sundar Pichai announced a significant shift from a mobile-first strategy to one focused on artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the company's commitment to rethinking all products through the lens of machine learning. Although Google's performance with large language models faced challenges over the past year, the focus on AI has not waned.

I/O has always been a pivotal moment for significant Google announcements, and the escalating competition in AI compels the company to continuously enhance its offerings. As we approach I/O 2024, here are the new features and applications we anticipate Google will unveil.

Since last year's I/O, Google has launched the Gemini 1.0 and 1.5 model series and introduced multiple features into its main applications, leading to an overall improvement, though further efforts are needed to stand out in the competitive landscape.

Google's core advantage in the AI space lies in its widely used applications, which provide convenience for users. Despite the plethora of emerging AI products, Google can integrate AI capabilities into these popular applications, establishing a primary point of contact for users seeking AI solutions.

In Gmail and Docs/Sheets/Slides, Google has introduced generative AI features designed to "help with writing, organizing, and visualizing," aimed at simplifying everyday tasks for users. Going forward, Google may further explore AI applications in personal life management through Gmail and Calendar.

For other essential applications like Google Maps and Search, Google has announced the Search Generative Experience (SGE), and I look forward to seeing if it has matured enough for a lab preview. Additionally, Google Maps is testing a conversational form of generative AI search.

On mobile devices, the capabilities of Gemini remain somewhat limited, and it has yet to emerge as a powerful assistant, though anticipated updates could improve this. The Chrome browser has already introduced shortcuts for Gemini, making it easier for users to access.

From a platform perspective, we can expect Google to announce the upcoming Android 15 at the I/O conference. Currently, generative AI features in Android are primarily seen in intelligent reply functions like Gboard, but there is room for enhancing the overall user experience.

In terms of hardware, Google unexpectedly announced the Pixel 8a and the new Pixel tablet ahead of I/O. It will be interesting to see if Google teases the Pixel 9 series during I/O 2024. While the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro boast rich features, there are still unfinished aspects, particularly concerning promotional efforts targeting the U.S. market.

Additionally, I look forward to new AI assistant features that could spark user interest, although compatibility with existing devices remains a key consideration.