Tech wrap, 14 may: Android 16 set for june launch, nothing phone 3 teased as ‘True flagship’, and google gemini expands
In the latest developments from the world of technology, google has officially announced that Android 16 will be released in June, kicking off initially with select Pixel devices. This revelation came during Google’s inaugural “The Android Show: I/O Edition,” where the tech behemoth also provided a glimpse into several enhancements that will accompany the next-generation mobile operating system.
Built upon the visually expressive Material 3 design language, Android 16 promises a refined and customisable interface. Security also takes centre stage, with Google introducing new tools aimed at providing users with deeper control over their data and privacy settings. Additional features are expected to be detailed at the forthcoming google I/O keynote on 20 may.
Nothing phone 3: The company’s first ‘True glagship’ expected to cost £800
Hot on the heels of Google’s announcement, UK-based technology firm Nothing confirmed that its highly anticipated Phone 3 is slated to launch later this summer. The device, which CEO Carl Pei described as the company’s “first true flagship smartphone,” was teased during the Android Show via a video segment, although the actual handset remained under wraps, appearing blurred in the footage. Industry insiders speculate that the Phone 3 could be priced around £800, positioning it firmly in the premium tier, and suggesting a more aggressive approach to competing with established players like Samsung and Apple.
Google gemini coming to galaxy wearables
Meanwhile, samsung has announced that Google’s AI-powered assistant, Gemini, will soon be integrated into its galaxy wearables. According to Samsung’s statement, Galaxy smartwatches will benefit from the addition of Gemini, while pairing with the upcoming Galaxy Buds 3 series will also be streamlined to offer users an intelligent, seamless experience.
Spotify’s DJ gets voice commands
Spotify has upgraded its DJ feature, introducing voice command functionality exclusively for premium subscribers. The new capability allows users to verbally request specific tracks or playlists, with Spotify’s AI curating recommendations based on genre, activity, or mood. This marks the latest move by Spotify to enhance personalisation and convenience for its user base.
Apple expands accessibility features
In the realm of accessibility, apple has announced an array of new features set to arrive across its ecosystem later this year. Among the highlights is a magnifier app designed for Mac users with visual impairments, enhanced braille support, and accessibility nutrition labels that will provide detailed information about app compatibility directly on the App Store.
Android XR set for glasses and headsets preview at I/O
Google will showcase its android XR platform, developed in partnership with Samsung, at its I/O keynote on 20 may. The platform, designed to rival apple vision pro and meta quest, was first previewed at TED 2025 on prototype devices. At I/O, google will shift the focus to production-ready models, aiming to establish a foothold in the rapidly growing extended reality space.
OnePlus, iQOO, and google find hub updates
Elsewhere, OnePlus has launched its Pad 2 Pro tablet in China, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and boasting a massive 12,140mAh battery. Similarly, iQOO has revealed key specifications for its Neo 10 smartphone, featuring a 1.5K ultra-bright display and a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilisation.
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Google has also rebranded its “Find my device” service as “Find Hub,” broadening its functionality to help users locate not only devices and accessories but also friends and family members.
Nothing joins forces with KEF
Further bolstering its ambitions in audio, nothing has entered a strategic partnership with British audio company KEF. The collaboration is expected to deliver improved sound quality across Nothing’s future audio products, including earbuds and potentially, home speakers.
India eyes domestic GPU production by 2029
India is also making headlines with its ambition to develop home-grown GPUs. Government officials revealed that tech demonstration units would be ready by 2025, with full-scale commercial production expected to commence by 2029, potentially reducing reliance on foreign chipmakers.
Apple showcases Matrix3D, India’s BPO sector embraces agentic AI
Finally, Apple has shared research on Matrix3D, an AI model capable of reconstructing 3D scenes from 2D images, signalling advancements in photogrammetry. Meanwhile, India’s $54 billion BPO sector is undergoing a radical transformation driven by AI and agentic systems, reshaping operations once dominated by large human workforces.
