The Google Beam line of immersive video-call devices has undergone constant changes ever since it was first revealed as Project Starline. Originally envisioned as a videocall booth, Google Beam eventually evolved into a specialized platform for immersive telecommunication. Now, Google’s 2026 I/O developer conference is pushing the platform even further with the introduction of Sophie, an AI-generated hologram agent.
The Verge was able to get a hands-on demo with Sophie, where Google’s new AI with a human face shows off its capabilities, including speaking multiple languages, recognizing information from a book held up to the camera, and even recognizing sign language. In addition to covering Sophie, the video above also breaks down the light field display technology behind Google Beams’ 3D display.
