Introduction to Android XR
Google has announced Android XR, a new platform that brings AI capabilities into the extended reality of headsets and glasses. The platform will make it easier to develop apps on multiple devices and will be compatible with existing tools like ARCore, Android Studio, Jetpack Compose, Unity, and OpenXR.
Developer Preview and Tools
The first developer preview of Android XR is now available, and that means developers can start creating immersive and augmented reality experiences. To help them in making those apps, Google has introduced an Android XR Emulator in the Android Studio, which would let the developers test their apps in a virtual XR room using a keyboard and mouse to navigate around.
It will launch alongside Samsung’s Project Moohan headset, which is set to launch next year. This new platform from Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm is a major move in the evolution of XR. The Project Moohan headset will seamlessly transition users between fully immersive experiences and augmented overlays on real-world surroundings.
Reports indicate earlier delays in the headset’s release due to disagreements between Samsung and Google. But it would appear the partnership remains set on creating a competitive product to go against Apple’s Vision Pro.
Improved Compatibility and App Ecosystem
One of the key features of Android XR is that it will continue to support existing mobile and tablet apps from the Google Play Store. This essentially means that when users buy an XR device, they will immediately have access to a large number of apps. Furthermore, Google is specifically redesigning core apps, including YouTube, Google TV, Chrome, Maps, and Google Photos, for a more immersive screen experience.
Gemini Integration for Smarter Control
Google also is integrating its AI-powered assistant, Gemini, into Android XR. Gemini lets users control XR devices, search for contextual information, and interact with apps using voice. Demos showed Gemini summarizing group chats, making recommendations, and helping users complete tasks, such as hanging shelves or finding gifts.
Future of Android XR
Google imagines the next versions of Android XR extending to include glasses that offer “all-day help.” Consumer launch dates are still unclear, but the company has already started testing prototypes with select users. More X device makers, such as Lynx, Sony, and XReal, will support Android XR, further expanding reach.
Competition with Apple and Market Positioning
Many consider Android XR to be Google’s answer to Apple’s $3,600 Vision Pro, which was criticized for the small app library and hefty price. Google is leveraging backward compatibility with existing apps and a solid ecosystem to make things easier for consumers.
The price of the Project Moohan headset remains unannounced, but the game plan for Google involves the availability and affordability of apps as it looks to win over consumers.
Partnerships and Innovations Continue
Google has confirmed that it continues to collaborate with companies like Magic Leap while supporting Qualcomm’s XR solutions. It is not yet certain whether Magic Leap will fully implement Android XR, but the partnership does signal Google’s commitment to XR technologies moving forward.
Conclusion
With Android XR, Google aims to create a long-term sustainable platform for both hardware manufacturers and software developers. Based on the earlier AR and VR projects such as Daydream and Cardboard, the company now focuses on developing a common ecosystem to make the XRs accessible, versatile, and practical for everyday use.
Images: Samsung, Google
