I/O 2026 is bringing more AI to Google Play
Google I/O 2026 has unveiled several updates for the Google Play storefront, emphasizing artificial intelligence. A new feature called Ask Play allows users to ask natural language questions to discover apps more easily. Additionally, Play Games Sidekick is expanding to include social features that enhance the gaming experience.
- ▪Google I/O 2026 introduced updates focused on AI for the Google Play storefront.
- ▪The Ask Play feature enables users to ask natural language questions for app discovery.
- ▪Play Games Sidekick will now include social information about friends' achievements in games.
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Big Tech Google I/O 2026 is bringing more AI to Google Play Play Games Sidekick is also getting a wider rollout. By Anna Washenko May 19, 2026 1:45 pm EST Stockinq/Shutterstock This year's Google I/O has introduced a pile of updates for the Google Play storefront. Most of the new features are developer-focused as usual, but there are a couple standout changes to the way that regular Android users will interact with the store. We knew that AI would be a big factor in Google's upcoming plans, with Gemini Intelligence announced during the Android Show: I/O Edition, and of course there's more artificial intelligence to be had. Google Play is rolling out a new AI-powered feature called Ask Play. It's an overlay that allows users to ask natural language questions in order to find new apps.
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