Considering the advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its interaction with computers, Google has unveiled a new operating system, Android XR. For reference, “XR” stands for “extended reality,” a generic term that describes technologies using Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality, and everything in between.
In 2008, Google launched Android OS with the intention of making computing available to everyone. If one looks at the surroundings, Android powers most things, including phones, tablets, watches, TVs, cars, and more.
Now, Google wants a dedicated OS that will enable extended reality devices, like headsets and glasses, better to understand your intents in the world around you. Android XR could be a direct competitor to the visionOS that powers Apple Vision Pro headsets.
Built in collaboration with Samsung, Android XR integrates a large pool of information deciphered from decades of AI investment to bring users helpful experiences. Android XE is working to create an ecosystem of developers with supporting tools like ARCore, Android Studio, Jetpack Compose, Unity, and OpenXR.
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Developers could use these platforms to build apps and games for upcoming XR devices. So, users can expect a wide array of features in subsequent updates.
Under Project Moohan’s code, Samsung is working on the first XR device, which will be available for purchase next year. From the glimpses of Android XR, indeed, it could transform how we watch, work, and explore.
Google Gemini is at the core of Android XR, which could seamlessly merge a virtual environment and the real world. In an official blog post, Google mentions that Android XR is perfect enough to fill the space around you with apps and content.
Also, Google is stressing the integration of its apps with headsets. Using such headsets, you can watch YouTube and Google TV on a virtual big screen, explore news using Google Maps, and multitask using Chrome. Intriguingly, you even use Circle to Search (a feature using hand gestures) to quickly find information on whatever’s in front of you.
Since Android XR is Android, almost all apps and games on Google Play will work out in XR. Like Android, XR is open, which is the core reason users can get more choices of devices and access to apps they already know and love.
