Google hints at 'something exciting' at Samsung's Unpacked event

Samsung is scheduled to hold its Galaxy Unpacked event next week, where it’s expected to announce the Galaxy S20 series. But it seems like Google might also have a presence at the event.

The official Android Twitter account tweeted a Samsung Galaxy Unpacked teaser video today, adding that “something exciting is just around the corner.” Check out the tweet and video below.

The account seldom (if ever) teases device launches from third-party manufacturers, suggesting that Google has a role to play at Unpacked.

One of the more likely answers centers on Google Duo video chat support. A previously leaked Galaxy S20 tidbit suggests that Samsung and Google are working to integrate Google Duo into the native messaging app. It’s not clear whether this rumored integration would be restricted to Korea, but Google could theoretically announce the feature at Unpacked and offer a wider launch down the line.

Another possibility is that Google will be on-hand to demonstrate how it’s optimized Android for the upcoming Galaxy Z Flip clamshell foldable phone. Android 10 is already optimized for foldable phones, but Google might want to show these tweaks on a bigger stage or show off a few new features.

Some Twitter users have also suggested that Google is working with Samsung on phones running stock Android. We haven’t seen Samsung flagships running stock Android in years though, so this would pretty much come out of nowhere. It doesn’t hurt either that Samsung’s One UI has a ton of extra features not seen in pure Android.

One more possibility is that Google could announce a deal with Samsung to bring the Android 11 developer preview to its phones first. This is speculation, of course, but it would be a pretty nice incentive for enthusiasts to buy the phone.

Aside from the Galaxy S20 phones, what do you expect from Samsung’s Unpacked event? Give us your thoughts below!