Google Reveals Android 16, Wear OS 6, and Gemini AI Features

Google has officially disclosed major updates to Android and Wear OS, along with expanded artificial intelligence and security features, in a prelude to its annual developer conference. Rather than waiting for the Google I/O 2025 keynote, the company presented the advancements during a standalone “Android Show,” spotlighting Android 16, Wear OS 6, Gemini integrations, and new safety tools.

Android 16 introduces a visual redesign under the new Material 3 Expressive framework. This design phase emphasizes refined typography, fluid animations, and updated color palettes aimed at improving user interface clarity and consistency across devices. Usability enhancements include new Quick Settings options and customizable home screen tools, allowing for flexible widget and app placement.

Wear OS 6, built to align with Android 16’s Material 3 Expressive principles, delivers an upgraded UI with more intuitive navigation and refined watch face customization. The update promises smoother integration with Android smartphones and broader support for health-tracking sensors.

Security enhancements in Android 16 focus on real-time threat detection and user privacy controls. An updated AI-driven system now detects and flags advanced scams, such as fake toll messages.

A new Key Verifier feature allows end-to-end encryption key exchanges during private conversations, providing stronger identity validation. The OS will also support on-call permission prompts, enabling temporary access to accessibility tools during calls with unfamiliar numbers—useful in certain verified service contexts.

In device tracking, Google has introduced Find Hub, a centralized replacement for Find My Device. It supports satellite connectivity and ultra-wideband (UWB) technology for more precise location tracking—even in offline environments.

Google is deepening Gemini's integration across its platforms, replacing legacy Google Assistant functions. Now accessible through Android smartphones, tablets, Wear OS smartwatches, Google TV, and Android Auto, Gemini enables natural language interaction and real-time assistance.

Gemini Live, launching on Android Auto and Google Built-in systems, supports on-the-go conversations, enhancing driving experiences. On Google TV, the assistant offers content suggestions and answers to general questions, from movie recommendations to actor details.

Gemini is also slated for integration into Google's upcoming Android XR platform, targeting mixed-reality experiences. Full specifications and platform insights are expected to be revealed during Google I/O 2025, scheduled for May 20.