Google I/O date, location revealed in scavenger hunt

This year, Google has done something different about its I/O developers conference. Instead of giving out the details on a silver platter, it made developers and enthusiasts sweat it out a bit. It had them go on a scavenger hunt for clues but, thanks to the Internet and the cooperation of the masses, they made short work of those puzzles. Long story short, they revealed that Google I/O this year will be held at the Shoreline Ampitheatre from May 17 to 19.

Google had sleuths going all over the world, virtually of course, dropping hints in Brazil, Poland, and Thailand, just to name a few. It is perhaps a testament to the collective power of brains passionately working together for a common goal that the code was cracked in no time flat.

The choice of venue is also interesting. For the second time in a row, the event will be held at the Shoreline Ampitheatre instead of the Moscone Center where I/O has been traditionally held since 2008 until 2015. The higher turn out last year may have convinced Google of this choice of locations.

As to what Google has in store for I/O 2017, it will be anything and everything under the Google sun. But in particular, it will most likely put a focus on its artificial intelligence Google Assistant agent and its integrations with smart home products. There might also be a bit of talk about Google's Chrome OS plans, especially after it revealed its intentions to bring more form factors to Chromebooks as well as increase support for Android apps. As for Android itself, there doesn't seem to be any stirrings on the Android "O" front, though it's still too early to say so at this point.