Google I/O 2026: Gemini Spark Agent and the Biggest Search Redesign in 25 Years

Google announced two major product initiatives at I/O 2026 on May 19: Gemini Spark and a sweeping redesign of Google Search built around AI agents.

Gemini Spark: Your 24/7 Personal Agent

Gemini Spark is a personal AI agent that works in the background on dedicated Google Cloud virtual machines -- active even when your device is off. Built on Gemini 3.5, it features a dedicated Gmail address users can email directly to assign tasks.

Handles scheduling, email drafting, and Google Drive file access

Plans to support third-party apps including Uber, OpenTable, and Zillow

Designed to confirm with users before taking major actions

Spark is rolling out to trusted testers first, with a beta for Google AI Ultra subscribers in the US expected next week. Future features include custom sub-agents and authorized payments within set budgets.

Google Search: A 25-Year Overhaul

Google is transforming Search into an AI-agent-first experience. AI Mode has crossed one billion monthly users and AI Overviews now reaches 2.5 billion. New capabilities include:

Information agents: Users create custom agents that monitor and research topics continuously in the background

Generative UI: Search generates dynamic charts, dashboards, and comparison widgets on the fly

Mini-apps: Natural language prompts build apps and dashboards without code

Full details at the Google Search blog.