
Use Android phones and tablets to control lights, appliances and scan CDs.
Google I/O has seen some serious advances with both Android Ice Cream Sandwich and Android Market Movies leading the line. But the Big G has also used the San Francisco event to tout Android@Home, a new framework that will let the OS control everything from light switches to home cinema systems.
Google used a demo to show off an Android tablet switching on house lights, using special bulbs designed by Lighting Science. These are expected to hit shelves later this year.
But it's the more futuristic stuff that's really got us het up. Google touted “Project Tungsten”, an amped up Apple AirPlay rival that can not only control and stream to compatible music and home cinema kit, but also scan and play CDs via NFC tech.
Devs are set to get cracking on implementing this exciting future tech imminently, but there's no news on when we'll be seeing more extreme interpretations of Android@Home sitting pretty on smartphones and tablets. Either way, this proves that right now, the Big G has the edge on Apple in terms of futuristic mobile tech.
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
-
What are Android Instant Apps and how can I get them?
Open an app without downloading it, right from your smartphone browser
-
Android second-screen InkCase Plus smashes Kickstarter goal
The clever double-up display boasts 7 day standby time
-
Philips launches Europe's first Android-powered TV
The 65-in 4K screen is a Google-friendly powerhouse
-
Gemini can help you avoid being scammed, says Google
And there's a great new feature for finding lost items, devices and to check the location of loved ones, too
-
Android phones are getting a Dynamic Island... sort of
Android 16 is bringing an iPhone feature to millions of phones
-
When will my phone get Android 16? Pixel, Samsung, Nothing, OnePlus – is yours on the list?
Android 16 arrives earlier than previous updates, but when will your phone get it?
-
Android 16 launches today – 6 headline new features to look out for
There are some exciting new features coming in Android 16
-
Android 16 launch LIVE – all the latest on The Android Show and more
Google will detail Android 16 today, a week ahead of Google I/O – and we're covering it live
-
The Android Show I/O – how to watch the launch of Android 16 and discover new features
Google will unveil its biggest Android update in years today – you can watch it right here
-
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge launch official – and it's very soon
The revolutionary phone will be here in a matter of days
-
Massive Google blunder reveals the biggest design upgrade in Android history
A fresh new look could be coming to Android really soon