Google, which has ignored virtual reality for years, is finally taking an important step in this regard. Announcing that it has developed a new platform for extended reality (XR) devices, Google named it Android XR.
Google also launched the Android XR SDK Developer Preview for developers with various supporting tools such as ARCore, Android Studio, Jetpack Compose, Unity and OpenXR.
Google also announced a partnership with Samsung to create a device codenamed Project Moohan XR. The upcoming Android XR-powered Project Moohan headset will be similar to the Apple Vision Pro and will focus on a fully immersive experience.
Through this platform, users will be able to use popular Google apps in their virtual environment, including Gemini, Google TV, Google Photos, YouTube, Chrome and others.
Gemini will be available on Samsung’s announced XR device. Thus, this virtual reality headset will also have artificial intelligence capabilities. Gemini will be able to understand what users see from their headsets and give them comments and advice.
Google promises that Google’s own applications, as well as popular mobile and tablet Android applications in the Google Play Store, will work under Android XR from day one. Thus, it seems that the problem of lack of applications, which is the biggest reason for the failure of Apple Vision, will not be experienced in Android XR.
Applications and games made especially for Android XR will be released next year. Project Moohan will be available for purchase next year.
