Kakao, led by CEO Jung Ji-hyun, announced a strengthened partnership with Google on Tuesday, February 12, 2026, to enhance user experiences on Android devices through the integration of next-generation AI technologies.
The collaboration will focus on developing user experiences for Android XR-based AI glasses and advancing AI-powered features on Android mobile platforms. Kakao will concentrate on building interfaces optimized for these emerging form factors, particularly emphasizing hands-free interaction and natural language processing for everyday tasks like messaging and phone calls, according to a company statement.
A key component of the partnership involves optimizing on-device AI services for Android mobile devices. The initial demonstration of this collaboration will be ‘Kanana in KakaoTalk,’ a new service leveraging Kakao’s independently developed lightweight AI model. Kanana is designed to proactively offer assistance to users by anticipating their needs and initiating conversations, providing features such as schedule briefings, information retrieval, and personalized recommendations.
Google and Kakao will work closely to ensure the smooth operation of these on-device AI services within the Android ecosystem. This collaboration extends beyond mobile, encompassing the development of user experiences specifically tailored for Android XR-based AI glasses. Kakao aims to create intuitive interactions using voice and natural language, enhancing accessibility, and convenience.
This partnership with Google complements Kakao’s existing AI initiatives, including its collaboration with OpenAI. Kakao is pursuing a two-pronged approach to AI development, leveraging both OpenAI’s and Google’s technologies to drive innovation across its services.
The announcement follows a recent earnings call where Kakao executives highlighted the importance of AI in shaping the future of its platform. Further details regarding the rollout of ‘Kanana in KakaoTalk’ and the development of AI-powered features for Android XR glasses are expected to be released in the coming months.
