Google has announced exciting advancements for Android Studio, Gemini, its development environment for building Android applications. Unveiled at its developer event, these updates rely on enhanced AI capabilities powered by the new Gemini 2.5 Pro model, set to revolutionize how developers test and build apps.
A new feature called Journeys enables developers to describe app tests in natural language, removing the need to write lengthy code. Gemini then processes these scenarios and executes tests either on real or virtual Android devices, displaying results right within the development environment.
Agent Mode and Enhanced AI Features
Another major addition is Agent Mode, which harnesses Gemini for more involved, multi-stage development tasks like API integrations. The AI can now plan development workflows by managing dependencies, editing necessary files, and even suggesting bug fixes.
A more intelligent App Quality Insights panel uses Gemini to analyze crash data, pinpointing potential causes in the source code and recommending solutions. Developers looking to experiment with these AI-driven innovations can access them through the new Studio Labs menu, now located in the Settings of stable Android Studio releases, starting with the Narwhal update.
Android Studio Cloud is now publicly previewed, allowing developers to stream a Linux-powered environment right in their browsers, making app development possible from any location with an internet connection. Coming soon, a Version Upgrade Agent will further automate the process of updating dependencies, streamlining routine maintenance tasks for programmers.
Developers can expect Gemini to assist with generating Jetpack Compose preview code and transforming UI code using conversational commands, as well as enabling attachments of images and project files during AI-guided sessions. A new feature, Rules in Gemini, will let teams establish coding conventions or preferred output styles for more personalized results.
Businesses can now benefit from enterprise-focused AI tools by using Android Studio, Gemini, which ensures data security when subscribing to Gemini Code Assist in premium editions. Additional improvements bring more flexible Compose previews, better navigation, a default-embedded Android XR emulator, and upgrades to data backup and recovery tools.
Support for Kotlin Multiplatform is also expanding, reinforcing Android Studio’s commitment to cross-platform app development. Furthermore, early-warning tools will help apps adapt to changes in Android’s new 16KB page size, ensuring a smoother transition as the platform evolves.
