Google Launches Android XR OS for Mixed Reality Devices and Smart Glasses

By: Bhumika

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Updated on: 13-Dec-2024

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Key Highlights:

• Google unveils Android XR, a new operating system for mixed reality headsets and smart glasses.
• Android XR integrates AI, AR, and VR features, rivaling Apple's visionOS.
• Samsung to launch the first Android XR device, codenamed Project Moohan, in 2025.

Google Introduces Android XR OS for the Future of Mixed Reality

Google has announced Android XR, a dedicated operating system designed to power mixed reality (XR) headsets and smart glasses. Developed in collaboration with Qualcomm and Samsung, this new platform brings a blend of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance user experiences.

This move positions Google in direct competition with Apple’s visionOS, which powers the Apple Vision Pro headset, launched in 2023. Android XR aims to deliver immersive experiences while supporting a range of applications and features.

First Android XR Developer Preview Released

Google has rolled out the developer preview of Android XR, inviting developers to create apps and games for the upcoming devices. The preview includes support for popular development tools like Android Studio, ARCore, OpenXR, and Unity, enabling smooth integration with existing workflows.

One standout feature is the integration of Google’s Gemini AI assistant, which allows users to interact with virtual environments using natural language. For example, users can ask questions about objects in view, get navigation assistance, or perform searches with gestures using the Circle to Search feature.

Additionally, Google's apps like YouTube, Google Photos, and Google TV are being redesigned to work seamlessly on larger virtual displays, providing an immersive entertainment experience similar to Apple’s approach with the Vision Pro.

Android XR Features in Action

Google Maps will support Immersive View, offering a new way to navigate with detailed directions on a virtual screen. Users can also browse the web on a massive display using Google Chrome, navigating with intuitive gestures.

Prototype previews of Android XR smart glasses show futuristic features like:

• Pop-up notifications for messages.
• Turn-by-turn navigation directions with a compact circular map.
• Automatic text translation and virtual tutorials using AR technology.

Samsung to Lead the Way with Android XR in 2025

The first device to run Android XR codenamed Project Moohan will be launched by Samsung in 2025. The XR headset is expected to compete directly with the Apple Vision Pro, offering cutting-edge features at a competitive price point.

Google also confirmed that it has begun testing prototype smart glasses equipped with Android XR, which aim to deliver advanced capabilities in a lightweight form factor.

Summary

With Android XR, Google is shaping the future of extended reality, combining AI and immersive technologies for smarter devices. Whether it’s for productivity, entertainment, or navigation, Android XR promises to unlock a new dimension of possibilities.