Another trade show fell victim to coronavirus. Google is canceling its I/O event, which was due to run from May 12th to 14th.
“Due to concerns around the coronavirus (COVID-19), and in accordance with health guidance from the CDC, WHO, and other health authorities, we have decided to cancel the physical Google I/O event at Shoreline Amphitheatre,” reads the official statement from Google.
Those who have already purchased tickets to I/O 2020 will be refunded in full by March 13, 2020. If you have registered for I/O 2020, you will be automatically granted the option of purchasing an I/O 2021 ticket.
Around 5,000 people usually attend I/O events. This is the first time that Google has cancelled the show since starting it in 2008. The tech giant typically uses the platform to announce its new tools for developers, hardware and updates to its services.
Google does not say if it is going to host the show at a later time or make it online. It promises, however, to “explore other ways to evolve Google I/O to best connect with our developer community.”
So… is at least E3 2020 happening? The show should take place from June 9th to 11th. The ESA are saying that the event is still a go.
“Everyone is watching the situation very closely. We will continue to be vigilant, as our first priority is the health, wellness and safety of all of our exhibitors and attendees. Given what we know at this time, we are moving ahead full speed with E3 2020 planning. Exhibit and registration sales are on track for an exciting show in June.”
The ESA in a statement.