Google I/O 2023 Reference Guide for Software Engineering Leaders

, Tim Ryan serves as the Director of Marketing for Testlio and spends his time between Austin, TX and New Orleans, LA.

Get the 101 for the Google I/O 2023 event on May 10th!

As a software testing company that helps engineering leaders overcome staffing, release, and quality challenges, we must live and breathe in the worlds of Google and Apple software, OS, Apps, and hardware. 

That’s why we’re excited to share updated reference information on Google I/O 2023.

Enjoy!

  

What is Google I/O 2023? 

Google I/O 2023 is an annual conference catered to Google and Android developers. The event features keynote speakers, opportunities for hands-on learning, and technical sessions covering Google tech like Android, Google Cloud, Google Assistant, and more. 

Google I/O 2023 Image Credit Google Dev Blog
Image Credit Google

What does Google IO do? 

Google IO allows developers to network with Google engineers, brainstorm ideas, and get up-to-date insights on Google’s strategic direction. The event also serves as a venue for Google to share updates to its Android OS, Google Assistant, Google devices, and other popular products. The event provides opportunities for software engineering leaders to learn about software development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing via workshops, sessions, and keynotes.

What is meant by I/O?  

The “I/O” in Google I/O stands for Input/Output.

In the case of Google I/O, the I/O may refer to the communication between the Android OS and various hardware and software components in the context of Google’s event. Inputs can be various signals, including user actions, sensor data, network requests, or file requests, while outputs can be data, notifications, or visual/audio feedback to the user.

I/O may also refer to a platform’s input/output APIs and protocols, such as the Android input/output framework and standard communication protocols like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC.

Moreover, I/O may also involve integrating various input and output devices with the Android operating system, such as cameras, microphones, speakers, and other sensors.

Can anyone go to Google IO?

Can anyone go to Google IO? Yes and no.

While anyone can technically attend in person, they must have a ticket. In the past, Google used a lottery system to allocate event tickets. So, yes, anyone can go to Google IO (in person) but only if you secure a ticket. Everyone else can also go to Google IO via an accessible live stream. Visit the Google I/O registration page to register and watch the live streamed keynotes in Mountain View, CA.

How much does it cost to go to Google IO?  

This year’s Google IO event will be live-streamed for free in front of a live audience. It’s free and open to all who register here.

What are the 2023 dates for Google I/O? 

On May 10th, 2023, Google I/O will present to a small live audience. Most people are encouraged to register to view online. The livestream keynotes are open to anyone who registers before the live event on May 10, 2023. 

What time is Google IO 2023? 

The keynote begins at 10 a.m. PT and 1 p.m. ET and 6 p.m. GMT on May 10th. 

Google I/O starting time by city and country:

Mountain View, CA 10 a.m.

Denver, CO 11 a.m.

Chicago, IL 12 noon

New York, NY 1 p.m.

London, UK 6 p.m.

Tallinn, EE 8 p.m.

Image - What time is Google I/O 2023 by state and country
Source: Savvy Time World Clock Google Chrome Extension

Where is Google I/O 2023? 

Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View CA

The Shoreline Amphitheater in Mountain View is California’s most loved outdoor concert venue, where the likes of Shania Twain and The Cure will perform in May 2023. Google I/O is presented to a limited live audience, but anyone can what via livestream.

How does the tech announced in the first decade of Google I/O hold up today? 

Google I/O 2008

The inaugural Google I/O conference featured the launch of Google App Engine, which allowed developers to build and host web applications on Google’s infrastructure. Developers continue to use Google App Engine, as it has evolved and improved to support more programming languages, additional services, and better integration with other GCP products. Initially, it supported only Python, but it has since added support for languages such as Java, PHP, Go, and Node.js. It remains a popular choice, competing with other platforms such as Amazon Web Services’ (AWS) Lambda and Microsoft Azure Functions. 

Just before Google I/O 2008, Google’s Android operating system was launched. The first phone, called the HTC Dream, was released in September 2008. Since then, Android has become the world’s most popular operating system and enjoys a large percentage of the overall market share, followed by Apple’s iOS.

Google I/O 2011 

The introduction of Google Music Beta, Chromebooks, and the Android Open Accessory Development Kit (ADK) were key announcements. Also, the unveiling of the “Android@Home” framework showcased Google’s early interest in smart home technologies.

Google I/O 2012 

This event featured the debut of Google Glass, a wearable technology that generated significant buzz. Other major announcements included the Nexus 7 tablet and the Android 4.1 Jelly Bean update.

While Google Glass didn’t achieve widespread success in the consumer market, it has found a niche in the enterprise sector, where its hands-free AR capabilities can improve productivity, worker safety, and training efficiency. In July 2017, Google introduced the “Google Glass Enterprise Edition,” designed for manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and field services. 

Google I/O 2014 

The launch of Android Lollipop (Android 5.0) and the announcement of Material Design, Google’s design language for Android, were important highlights. Additionally, Google unveiled Android Wear, Android Auto, and Android TV.

Google I/O 2016 

The introduction of Google Assistant, Google’s voice-activated AI, was a significant development. Additionally, the announcement of Google Home, a smart speaker and home automation hub, marked Google’s entry into the smart home market.

Google Assistant has become one of the leading virtual assistants in the market, competing with Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri, and Microsoft’s Cortana. 

Google I/O 2018 

This conference showcased Google Duplex, an AI system capable of making phone calls and conducting natural-sounding conversations. Other key announcements included Android P (later named Android Pie), improvements to Google Assistant, and updates on Google Lens.

What to expect from Google I/O 2023? 

Rumors suggest Google may share AI announcements, hardware reveals like a potential new Pixel Tablet launch date and pricing, and Google budget Pixel 7a phone. In addition, expect several Android 14 features in beta and for developer preview. 

Google Android 14 logo image credit Google Android Developers
Image Source Android Developers

Other rumored topics include: 

  • Google’s foldable, Pixel Fold, launch – Android fans may be in for a pleasant surprise at this year’s Google IO with a potential Google-built Pixel foldable announced. It’s rumored to have an 18:9 aspect ratio when closed. It looks like the smartphone will come in either black or white and compete with Vivo X Fold, Xiaomi Mix Fold 2, and Samsung Galaxy Fold 4. According to details viewed by CNBC, the Pixel Fold may cost as much as $1700. Other specs include an industry-leading durable hinge, a 7.6-inch touch screen (opens like a book), water-resistance, and a battery last up to 72 hours. Testlio will be ready to conduct Android app testing on the Pixel Fold upon its release.
  • The rumor mill speculates what to expect from Pixel 8 during Google.IO
    • While massive changes aren’t likely from the Pixel 7 to the Pixel 8, there are musings around a more rounded device, a reduction in screen size (from a 6.32-inch display to 6.16-inches), an under-display camera with the three-lense setup on the rear with an upgrade on the front-facing camera to 12 or 16 megapixels, and a higher battery capacity with faster charging.
    • Onleaks is currently predicting 6.52in display. Instead, it will lose the curved glass of the Pixel 7 Pro, going for a flat panel. – Stuff
    • The corners are more rounded to avoid digging into your palm, and the three-lens rear camera array (primary, ultra-wide, and telephoto) is now grouped into one cutout. – engadget
  • Nest may announce a new tracker device, Nest Locator Tag. According to AndroidPolice, the new device may include a speaker for chimes, a tracking network, Ultra-Wideband, and Bluetooth Low Energy.
  • A Pixel Watch update? This rumor might be limited to a new version update available before the Google IO event. Here’s the link to the update that offers a new security patch.

Who attends Google I/O 2023?

Developers and software engineers make up the core audience at Google I/O to learn about the latest tools, technologies, and best practices for building and testing applications on Google platforms like Android, Chrome, Google Cloud, and more. In addition, product managers and designers attend to gain insights into the latest UX and design principles and product strategies. Startup founders, Google enthusiasts, industry partners, and journalists also attend. 

Why should you go to Google I/O 2023? 

Engineering leaders attend the conference to quickly get up to speed on cutting-edge technologies, best practices, and Google’s product roadmap. Engineering leaders gain insights to help them better strategize their tech stack, new product development priorities, and smart ways to adopt Google’s services and platforms.  

Google I/O 2023 is also a wonderful learning opportunity for Android developers and software engineers. In addition to keynote speakers, the event offers technical content and on-demand learning material. For example, the Google I/O 2023 is rumored to share several Android 14 features with developer tips to take advantage of them. 

What are the best software development sessions anticipated for Google I/O 2023? 

The actual keynotes for Google I/O have not yet been published, but rumors suggest a significant focus on AI developer tools, search, creation, connecting, and shopping.

Developer Tools

  • Android studio collaboration tool to leverage programmer prompts to write and fix code

Search 

  • Google Bard chat-based search engine

Creation 

  • AI image creation and editing
  • Tools to build AI apps
  • Wallpaper creation tool for Pixel hardware 
  • Video editing tool to build a short video from a longer version

Connecting 

  • AI Testing Kitchen app updates for people to learn about, experience, and give feedback on Google’s emerging AI technology.

Shopping

  • A YouTube feature called Shopping Try-on uses green screen-like technology virtually try on clothes 
  • Maya 3D visualizer for viewing shoes

A word about Bard

Google’s CEO Sundar Pichai shared his insights on AI on CBS’s 60 Minutes. Here are a few key takeaways about Bard and AI:

Google Bard AI Image Source Google
Image Credit Google

What is Bard?

The dictionary describes Bard as a type of ancient storyteller or poet who was known for their ability to use language to convey powerful messages and tap into emotions. At Google, the term “Bard” describes their AI language model, designed to read and understand vast amounts of text, and to use this knowledge to generate its own language-based outputs.

Bard is a language model developed with microchips that are significantly faster than the human brain. Over several months, Bard was trained to read and understand vast amounts of text available on the internet, which allowed it to develop a model of what language looks like. Instead of searching for answers, Bard relies on this model to predict the most probable next words based on what it has learned, making it an effective language prediction tool. Its impressive capabilities in language modeling make it useful in applications such as natural language processing, content creation, and other language-related tasks.

What types of jobs might AI disrupt?

The rise of Artificial Intelligence and machine learning will disrupt many jobs that involve repetitive or routine tasks. Knowledge workers, such as writers, accountants, architects, and software engineers, are among those who may face disruption as AI and machine learning algorithms become more sophisticated.

For example, AI can write computer code, which could potentially replace some software engineering jobs that involve repetitive coding tasks. Similarly, AI algorithms can analyze financial data, prepare tax returns, and perform other accounting tasks that were previously done by human accountants. In the field of architecture, AI algorithms can generate 3D models and designs, potentially reducing the need for human architects.

AI is likely to augment and assist creatives, potentially affecting jobs in the journalism and content creation industries. Today, AI helps creators focus on more complex and creative tasks while leaving repetitive and routine tasks to the machines.

How do you livestream and how to watch Google I/O 2023?  

Google I/O will be broadcast in front of a limited live audience with online access for anyone. Visit the Google I/O registration page to tune in to watch the streamed keynotes in Mountain View, CA. The livestream audience can expect engaging sessions plus updates on Android 14, Bard, and many other products and services.

YouTube will also host the Google I/O keynote. Here is the unique link for how to watch Google IO live via Google’s Keynote YouTube page.

Google is furthering its mission to universal accessibility for all. For those who might prefer to watch Google I/O with American Sign Language interpretation, use this unique YouTube link.

Live Stream Testing ebook image for free download from Testlio
Free Download on livestream testing strategy from Testlio

How many hours is Google IO?

Google IO 2023 is scheduled for a single day, May 10th. Looking at the duration of Google IO 2022, you should expect the main keynote to last around two hours.

Should you create a developer profile for Google I/O? 

It’s not mandatory, but by building a profile, you have access to My I/O to receive recommended content based on your interests. Click here to create a Google I/O developer profile.

Four benefits to creating a developer profile for Google I/O:

  • Resources: Access Google documentation, tutorials, and code samples to learn about new technologies and upskill your software development knowledge.
  • Informed: Be the first to know about new products, services, and tools from Google.
  • Network: Connect with fellow developers and experts. Engage and build your professional network.
  • Access: Get early access to developer-only products and services before they become available to the general public. This gives you a head start in developing new apps.

Six developer communities promoted by Google I/O 2023?

  • Google Developer Student Clubs: https://developers.google.com/community/gdsc
  • Google Developer Groups: https://developers.google.com/community/gdg
  • Google Developer Experts: https://developers.google.com/community/experts
  • Women Techmakers: https://www.womentechmakers.com/members
  • Tech Equity Collective: https://www.techequitycollective.com/
  • Accelerator: https://developers.google.com/community/accelerators

Eight Google Android influencers to follow on Twitter 

  • Yogesh Brar – Data Engineer and Writer offering specs and prices on the Google Pixel 7a and Pixel Fold plus many other gadgets, devices, and tools- @heyitsyogesh
  • Mishaal Rahman – Freelance journalist specializing in coverage of the Android OS. Co-host on TWiT’s All About Android show –  @MishaalRahman 
  • Maryam – Android development, Google Dev Expert, @WTMSaudi ambassador, @kotlinSaudi organizer, public speaker, mentor, blogger – @Mal7othify
  • Neil Sargeant – When tech meets minimalist iOS & Android – @Neil_Sarg
  • Damien Wilde – videographer at 9to5Google – @iamdamienwilde
  • Ankit – @TechnoAnkit1
  • Jose Morales Ros – Creador en YouTube; Tech, geografía y conocimiento; Fútbol, tecnología y videojuegos; Ilicitano; Debatamos con argumentos – @geekdegafas
  • Android Developers – Not an influencer but a good source for Android news, best practices, live videos, demonstrations, tutorials, and more! @AndroidDev

Seven publications that provide frequent Google I/O 2023 updates 

Best socials to stay informed on Google I/O?

If you want to follow the latest updates before, during, and after the event, check out these blog and social media channels:

Google Developers blog

Twitter

LinkedIn

Instagram

What are the best Google I/O hashtags?

If you want to follow the latest updates before, during, and after the event, follow these hashtags:

Google IO official hashtag: #GoogleIO

Google Pixel Fold: #PixelFold

Google: #GoogleAndroid: #android

Google Developers: #googledevs

Google AI: #GoogleAI

Helpful Android App and Chrome Software Testing Tips

We asked our experts to share quick tips on how to conduct Android Application Testing and QA on products built on Google software, browsers, and hardware.

Tip #1: Chrome Accessibility Testing

By Helen Burge, Senior Accessibility Testing Manager

“When in doubt of an issue, use Chrome’s inbuilt DevTools. They help identify the accessibility of elements in a web page using the Select Tool and hovering over the element you are checking.

In the image below, the Select Tool on the far top left of the DevTools is highlighted as selected, and the mouse hovers over a web page button behind it. Beneath it is a box showing the accessibility traits of the button.

Note, too, that I added an alt describing the screenshot.”

Chrome dev tool: The Select Tool on the far top left of the DevTools is highlighted as selected, and the mouse is hovering over a button of the web page behind it. Beneath it is a box showing the accessibility traits of the button.
Image Source Google Chrome Browser

Tip #2: Quick Android Debugging

By Cristian Gutierrez, Testing Manager

“Enabling USB debugging means we can collect logs, capture video and screenshots, and much more!”

For Android developers and testers seeking a convenient method to profile and debug app performance, Testlio’s Christian Gutierrez recommends activating on-device developer options.

In Android, if you navigate to Settings > Developer options, you can adjust system settings to help facilitate app performance troubleshooting. As suggested by Android Developers, this straightforward step offers numerous benefits, such as enabling USB debugging, generating bug reports, providing visual feedback for taps, flashing window surfaces upon updates, utilizing the GPU for 2D graphics rendering, and more.

Does this spark an interest? Capture more details from Android Studio here.

Tip #3: Chrome Browser Open Source Testing Tool

By Carie Fisher, Director, Digital Accessibility

“Did you know that the Chrome browser has an open-source testing tool built into it? It is called Lighthouse and will help you run basic audits for performance, accessibility, SEO, and more. You can use many methods to access Lighthouse, but one way is through the DevTools browser inspector tool.

First, navigate to a webpage or web app of your choice, right-click and choose “Inspect,” then navigate to the “Lighthouse” tab. Or use the shortcut Cmd + Option + C for Mac or Ctrl + Shift + C for Windows and Linux machines.

Once Lighthouse is open, select the tests you want to run, press the “Analyze page load” button, and wait for the results. Running these automated tests is a simple way to get quick results on the fly, but be sure to follow these automated tests up with more thorough manual checks to catch all of the bugs!

Tip #4: Leverage Google’s Android Screen Reader, TalkBack

By Florian Beijers, Accessibility Manager

TalkBack is the Google screen reader that gives users eyes-free control of their device. It’s included for free on Android devices.

“Google Android has a screen reader called TalkBack as well as its own Test-to-Speech (TTS) voices that allow me to do my work as an accessibility manager at Testlio. For example, when testing a page, the TTS reads the text aloud and describes the asset type:

‘Request Info – Link’
‘Apply to Freelance – Link
‘Paramount logo – Graphic’

It also allows me to make snazzy screencasts like the one below.”

Read more about TalkBack on Google’s Android Accessibility Help page.

Seven Helpful Android Software Testing Resources