Google I/O 2022 dates, Pixel 6a, Android 13, Pixel Watch and more

(Image credit: Justin Sullivan / Getty Images)

The Google I/O 2022 dates are confirmed. The annual developer conference is set for today and tomorrow, May 11 and May 12, taking place mostly online for the second consecutive year, though there will be a limited live audience for the main event.

Google I/O is typically where we learn about the newest Android software version, which in this case will be Android 13. Though the first Android 13 beta has landed, the software will likely be on full display during I/O with an extensive preview of the new features.

Google I/O 2022 latest news (updated May 11)

Our Google I/O 2022 live blog is now up and running, so check in regularly as we preview what to expect and bring you any last-minute leaks and announcements.
The Pixel 6a's launch is now "imminent" according to one leaker, so an announcement at I/O is looking more likely than ever
We've rounded up the top 5 biggest rumors around the Pixel 6a and the biggest Pixel Watch rumors; meanwhile, a report claims that the Pixel Watch will have a 300 mAh battery.

How to watch Google I/O

As an online event, Google I/O is open to anyone to attend. Google has set up a Google I/O website, which will feature a live stream of the event.

Google I/O 2022: Pixel 6a

After focusing on software in recent years, Google I/O could turn it attention to hardware in 2022. One of the likely candidates is the rumored Google Pixel 6a, which would be a throwback to previous years in which Google rolled out a low-cost complement to its flagships (in this case the Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 6 Pro). Here's a look at the Pixel 6 features we hope will appear in the Pixel 6a.

Google Pixel 6a metal dummy — (Image credit: Fathom Braceles / xleaks7)

The latest sign that something could be in the works came right from the top when CEO Sundar Pichai hinted that we might hear something Pixel-related at I/O this year. The Pixel 6a did just hit the FCC recently, and has more recently been rumored to have an "imminent" launch, with production having allegedly started in several factories. If so, then Google I/O fits right in line with the timing.

Google I/O 2022: Pixel Watch

Google Pixel Watch on wrist — Alleged Pixel Watch on someone's wrist (Image credit: imgur)

We're also expecting some announcements around Wear OS, which last year promised a total revamp for the best smartwatches for Android. Though the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 is the only smartwatch out now with the latest Wear OS version, models from Fossil are due to upgrade.

We could hear more about full availability during Google I/O 2022. Who knows? Maybe we'll get a Pixel Watch teaser, especially with the copious amount of leaks that have appeared recently, such as the battery size for the new watch. At any rate, you can prep for the smartwatch's potential appearance by reading up on the biggest Pixel Watch rumors just ahead of Google I/O.

Google I/O 2022: Android 13

As for Android 13, Google got the jump on its own developer conference by releasing the Android 13 beta in April (Here's how to get Android 13 beta 1 on your Pixel phone.) We'd still expect an extensive rundown of Android 13 features, even though we're already discovering some of the highlights, such as a faster QR code scanner and the return of device controls to the lock screen. Expect more Android 13 details to emerge from I/O.

Google I/O 2022: Chrome OS

Chrome OS will probably see some noteworthy updates too. New Chromebook software features could make some of the best laptops for students or simply using Google services even better. At the very least, there should be some additional functionality in Android 13 that benefits the Chrome OS experience. But we'll have to see.

Google I/O 2022: Outlook

Google I/O is just hours away now, so buckle in for all kinds of news and leaks leading up to the event. Google I/O will be free for anyone to watch virtually. All you have to do is register here.

Keep it locked to Tom's Guide for all of the latest Google I/O news as it happens and make sure you bookmark our Google I/O 2022 live blog for expert news and analysis about everything Google announces.

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Jordan is the Phones Editor for Tom's Guide, covering all things phone-related. He's written about phones for over six years and plans to continue for a long while to come. He loves nothing more than relaxing in his home with a book, game, or his latest personal writing project. Jordan likes finding new things to dive into, from books and games to new mechanical keyboard switches and fun keycap sets. Outside of work, you can find him poring over open-source software and his studies.

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