Last week, we surveyed our audience to find out which announcements from Google I/O generated the most excitement, particularly regarding the upcoming Android 17 update.
Unsurprisingly, Android 17 emerged as the standout feature at I/O 2026. However, the interest levels in other options were unexpected: virtually no one was enthusiastic about Wear OS 7. Both Gemini Intelligence and Android Auto received nearly equal interest, even surpassing the new Googlebook design, the Android-powered laptops.
Many respondents expressed hope that Googlebooks would encourage Android app developers to create more desktop-friendly user interfaces. This would complement Android 17’s improved, albeit still developing, desktop mode for phones equipped with video-capable USB-C ports.
Now, let's explore what has generated so much excitement about Android 17. The most highly-voted feature was its enhanced security capabilities. Customized Android versions from different manufacturers add various features, but with the increasing integration of our lives with smartphones, security threats remain a significant concern.
The compatibility with AirDrop, Apple’s wireless file sharing feature, was also met with enthusiasm. Android manufacturers have been striving to achieve a similar functionality for years, akin to the discussions surrounding the “green bubble” issue, albeit with less contention.
Despite some negative feedback, Gemini Intelligence received a generally positive reception in our poll, with users appreciating the improved ease of switching between phones.
Meanwhile, features that garnered the least excitement included new emojis and supplementary tools like picture-in-picture Screen Reactions and Pause Point, designed to help users reduce app dependency.
The overarching sentiment from participants was that this year’s I/O event felt somewhat lackluster, with Google failing to reveal anything particularly groundbreaking for its core operating systems. Many noted that Wear OS needs more attention in the coming year.
Additionally, commentators pointed out concerns regarding Google’s new rules for sideloaded apps, although these were not directly related to I/O.
