Android 15 No-Show Signals Google’s Shifting Focus Towards AI

Google held its Made By Google event yesterday, where they showcased their new Pixel 9 series. They also showed off some new AI features along with a couple of smart accessories. But surprisingly, there was no mention of Android 15 which was supposed to come out today. Meanwhile, AI took center stage throughout the event.

Google Broke the Pixel Tradition

Yes, Google didn’t offer even a glimpse of Android 15 in an event where the company would typically talk about what’s new in the latest flavor of their mobile operating system. Like many, I was watching the stream waiting for the search giant to talk about Android 15 which didn’t happen. I kept tapping “Check for updates” on my Pixel, hoping that the update would come, but it didn’t.

It also marks the first time that Google released a new lineup of smartphones running on a year-old Android 14. Usually, the most exciting part about a new Pixel device is that they’re the first in line to come with the newest Android version. This also robs these new Pixel 9 devices of the one extra year of update. Since they’re released with Android 14, like the Pixel 8 series, they’ll technically get 6 years of updates instead of 7.

Was Android Even Mentioned?

Android was mentioned briefly during the Made by Google event, only to then shift focus and discuss how well Gemini will be tuned into it going forward. Almost the first 25 minutes of the live stream comprised of the other senior members of the company talking about Gemini, its capabilities, how it works with other Google apps and services, its multi-modality, and how deeply it is integrated within the Pixel 9 devices.

I don’t blame Google for this, given AI is that hot new thing right now. All of the Silicon Valley is trying to find new and creative ways to push AI into their apps. Like how Meta did with WhatsApp. Not to forget how much money Google must be burning through just to keep up with the advances of ChatGPT.

This isn’t the first time, either. We witnessed the same just a few months back in May during the Google I/O, when we were all anticipating the Beta 2 of Android 15. However, the only thing that was discussed was Gemini, its different models, and the innovations the company is making in the field of AI. They then held another event just a day after to address the upcoming version of Android.

What It Says About the Future of Android?

So it is evident that Gemini is not going away anytime soon as long as the competition is tight. ChatGPT, Copilot, or Llama are all coming out with new innovations every few weeks. So, Android will have to take the back seat for the time being, unless a major makeover occurs. Although, I would suggest Google hold a separate I/O style event just for the AI enthusiasts. That’s just wishful thinking on my end.

The new update might come out tomorrow as of writing this article, but it doesn’t seem like Android is the center of attention anymore. What are your thoughts about this? Are you getting tired of this AI talk or hyped about these features?