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Google’s Big News – Watch the Keynote now!

by May 20, 2016Marketing Education

Google I/O 2016 – Key Takeaways for Business Owners and Google Maps Users

The Google I/O 2016 conference was a huge event live streamed for a worldwide audience. If you want to see the keynote and main presentations for yourself, click here to watch the recording on YouTube. Many businesses, including those using Google Maps and Street View, found plenty to get excited about.

A Big Year for Google Announcements

The 2016 keynote laid the groundwork for many powerful features we now use every day. Here are some of the most important updates that came out of Google I/O 2016:

1. Virtual Reality (VR) and Google Daydream

Google announced Daydream, its premium VR platform for Android. This move boosted the potential for immersive experiences, including virtual tours. At the time, this was big news for photographers, tour creators, and businesses wanting a richer way to engage online users. More VR tools would become available in Google Maps and Street View.

2. Smarter Messaging and Instant Apps

Google rolled out new apps: Allo for smart messaging (with in-line Google Assistant help) and Duo for video calling. These technologies made it easier to communicate with customers right from mobile, a trend that’s only grown since.

Instant Apps was another highlight. Users could launch parts of an app without installing the whole thing. This improved user experience, letting people engage with your business or service with fewer barriers.

3. Massive Android and Google Maps Upgrades

Android N (later named Nougat) brought multi-window support and improved speed for mobile devices. These changes meant better tools for local businesses, especially those relying on Android for client bookings, navigation, or day-to-day communications.

Google Maps began integrating more Street View features, giving users richer previews of places. These early ideas have turned into the seriously immersive mapping we rely on in 2025 and beyond. For a detailed wrap, check out Wired’s keynote summary.

4. Google Assistant and Google Home

Google Assistant made its debut in 2016, giving businesses and users a smarter way to look up information, find services, or connect with local providers. Soon after, Google Home entered the smart speaker market, setting new standards for local search and voice-driven results.

What Does It All Mean For Businesses Using Google Maps and Street View?

If you manage a local business, these developments signalled a shift. High quality content, up-to-date listings, and new technology—like virtual tours—became more important year after year. Google’s ecosystem started to favour those who kept their data fresh and used the latest features.

Still Relevant Today

Even years later, the core principles from Google I/O 2016 still matter. If you want your business to shine in Google Maps, you should:

  • Keep your Street View virtual tours up to date

  • Embrace new tools when Google releases them

  • Make sure your local listings and photos are current

If you’d like an in-depth chat about what today’s Google technology can do for your business, feel free to reach out. I cover all the latest updates, so you get practical advice that works for your industry.