5 things to know about Google’s ‘answer’ to Apple Vision Pro

Android XR

Google has announced its Android XR platform, a new operating system that is aimed to power the next-generation extended reality (XR) devices like headsets and smart glasses. The new operating system has been developed in collaboration with Samsung and it is expected to take on the likes of visionOS that powers the Apple Vision Pro.

The operating system combines AR and VR technologies and leverages Google’s AI features as well.

Here are five key things to know about the Android XR platform.

Android XR is Google’s new OS built for the next generation of computing, enabling seamless integration of virtual and augmented reality. It supports AI-driven features, enabling headsets and glasses to understand user intent and surroundings for enhanced functionality.

The first Android XR device, codenamed Project Moohan, is a Samsung-built headset set to launch next year. Google is also collaborating with Qualcomm, Sony, XREAL, and Magic Leap to expand the ecosystem and develop diverse XR devices for both personal and business use.

The major highlight of the operating system is going to be the AI features that integrates Gemini, Google’s AI assistant to offer users to interact conversationally with their XR devices. Users can access real-time assistance for planning, researching, and controlling their headsets. Gemini is also integrated into Google’s ecosystem of apps, including YouTube, Google TV, and Google Maps, redesigned for immersive XR experiences.

To make things easier and simpler for both users and developers, Google has made Android XR platform compatible with existing Google Play apps which lets mobile and tablet apps to work on XR devices without additional configuration or major coding changes. Developers can also leverage tools like ARCore, Android Studio, and Unity to create apps and games optimized for XR.

In addition to headsets, Android XR will power upcoming smart glasses designed for all-day use. These glasses will integrate Gemini for tasks like navigation, translation, and real-time information. Google plans to begin real-world testing of prototype glasses with a small group of users soon.

Google is planning to expand the platform by inviting developers and creators to explore the Android XR platform with resources available on the Android Developer Blog. Devices running Android XR like Project Moohan will be launched next year. We can expect to see more devices with the Android XR platform launch in the coming years from several other brands.