What you need to know
- AS if to divert our attention, Apple announces WWDC 2026 is set to run from June 8-12.
- The company plans to give viewers insights into its new technologies during the main keynote on June 8 at 10 am PT (1 pm ET).
- However, our sights are firmly set on Google’s I/O 2026 event tomorrow, May 19 at 1 pm ET, where Android XR, Android 17, and Gemini Intelligence will likely shine.
As if it were written in the script, Apple has started sending out notifications for its next major event, and it’s all about what’s next for its tech.
Today (May 18), Apple officially announced what’s coming up next, and if you guessed WWDC 2026, you’d be right. The company’s reveal comes with a brief view schedule for the event, which runs from June 8-12. As usual, Apple states this conference will bring together “developers from around the world to explore the tools, frameworks, and technologies” across its platforms.
The “main event” is set for June 8 at 10 am PT (1 pm ET), involving Apple’s keynote and a “first look at the latest updates coming to Apple platforms.” Of course, users can tune in via Apple’s YouTube or its main website (even the Apple TV app). Following this, users can continue to stay on board for the Platforms State of the Union. If you’re looking to get your nose into Apple’s tech, it says users will find a deeper dive into its new features, APIs, and more.
The Apple Developer YouTube channel will take the lead here, as well as the associated app and developer website. Video Sessions and Guides, Group Labs, the Apple Design Awards, and the Swift Student Challenge are all lined up from June 8-12.
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves
Apple will get its time to shine early on in June; however, facing our immediate future is Google’s I/O 2026 event. The meat and potatoes of this event are set for May 19 at 1 p.m. ET. It’s during this time that we’re expecting to see what Google’s been cooking for Gemini (Gemini Intelligence, too, maybe), Android XR, smart home updates, and much more. We’ve been speculating what could go down tomorrow for a while now, and all that’s left is to see the event.
Samsung’s Galaxy glasses are another aspect. While Android XR is likely to be a major feature during I/O 2026, perhaps Samsung’s first pair of smart glasses will make an appearance. Either way, we’re less than 24 hours away from the main event. To keep you involved and “in the know” about I/O, you can check our I/O 2026 Live Blog up until the event, and even after.
Android Central’s Take
Apple had quite a bit to talk about last year, and some of it looked like it was directly inspired by Google. I’m expecting quite a bit from Apple this year, too. It’s always interesting just seeing what they’re coming up with, even if I don’t own an iPhone. My main focus right now is on I/O (and that Live Blog, which you should check out). Gemini Intelligence, Android XR, and Android 17 are my big expectations for tomorrow.