Google announced the launch of a new Android-based XR platform on Thursday, designed to integrate AI features. The platform, named Android XR, aims to support app development across various devices, including headsets and glasses. The first developer preview of Android XR was released yesterday, and it will support existing tools such as ARCore, Android Studio, Jetpack Compose, Unity, and OpenXR.
Project Moohan Headset
Google revealed that Android XR will debut with the Samsung-built Project Moohan headset, which is set to be available for purchase next year. Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm had announced their partnership to develop an XR device early last year. However, reports of a power struggle between Google and Samsung over project control emerged, leading to delays. Initially expected to ship earlier this year, the launch was postponed.
The Project Moohan headset will offer users the ability to switch between a fully immersive experience and augmented content over real-world surroundings. Additionally, users will be able to control the device using Gemini and ask questions about the apps and content they are viewing.
App Ecosystem and Gemini
Google emphasized that since Android XR is based on Android, most mobile and tablet apps on the Play Store will be compatible with it. This means that users purchasing an Android XR headset will have immediate access to a vast library of apps through the Android XR Play Store.
This move is seen as a strategic response to Apple’s $3,600 Vision Pro, which faced challenges due to a limited number of apps at launch and its high cost. Google aims to offer better app access to attract more users.
Google is also redesigning its key apps like YouTube, Google TV, Chrome, Maps, and Google Photos for an immersive screen experience. Notably, Google did not release a YouTube app for Vision Pro and had developer Christian Selig remove his app Juno for YouTube viewing from the App Store.
An Android XR Emulator is being added to Android Studio, allowing developers to visualize their apps in a virtual environment. The emulator includes XR controls for using a keyboard and mouse to navigate in a spatial environment. Google is also integrating Gemini into Android XR. Beyond screen control and contextual information, Gemini will support the Circle to Search feature.
Support for Other Devices
Google expressed its ambition for Android XR to eventually support glasses with “all-day help.” The company is currently seeding prototype glasses to select users, though no consumer launch date has been specified. In a demo, Google showcased a person using Gemini to summarize a group chat and seek recommendations for buying a card for a friend. Another demo featured a person wearing glasses asking Gemini for instructions on hanging shelves.
Google mentioned that companies like Lynx, Sony, and XReal, which use Qualcomm’s XR solutions, will be able to launch more devices with Android XR. The Mountain View-based company also confirmed its ongoing collaboration with Magic Leap on XR, though it is unclear if Magic Leap will adopt Android XR.
Google has previously ventured into AR and VR with Project Tango, Daydream, and Cardboard VR. However, the company hopes that its Android XR initiative will gain traction with both hardware manufacturers and software developers.
