Google has announced the launch of Android XR, a new platform designed to accommodate AI features and support the development of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) apps on various devices, including headsets and glasses. The company released the first developer preview of Android XR on Thursday, which already supports existing tools such as ARCore, Android Studio, Jetpack Compose, Unity, and OpenXR.

The Android XR platform will initially be available on the Samsung-built Project Moohan headset, which is set to be released next year. This partnership between Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm was announced last year, but reports of a power struggle between Google and Samsung over control of the project emerged, leading to a delayed launch. The headset will allow users to seamlessly switch between fully immersive experiences and augmented content on top of real-world surroundings, with control capabilities through Gemini and the ability to ask questions about the app and content being viewed.

One of the significant advantages of Android XR is its compatibility with existing mobile and tablet apps on the Play Store, thanks to its Android-based foundation. This means that users who purchase a headset with Android XR will have access to a vast library of apps through the Android XR Play Store, a significant advantage over Apple's $3600 Vision Pro, which has limited app availability. Google's strategy appears to be a deliberate attempt to counter Apple's high-end VR headset, which has struggled to gain traction due to its prohibitive cost.

Google is also redesigning several of its popular apps, including YouTube, Google TV, Chrome, Maps, and Google Photos, to provide immersive experiences on Android XR devices. Notably, the company did not release a YouTube app for Vision Pro and even removed a third-party YouTube app from the App Store, highlighting the competitive nature of the VR market.

In addition to the Android XR platform, Google is introducing an Android XR Emulator to Android Studio, allowing developers to visualize their apps in a virtual environment. The emulator features XR controls, enabling developers to use a keyboard and mouse to emulate navigation in a spatial environment.

Google is also pushing its Gemini feature for Android XR, which provides screen control, contextual information, and support for Circle, a search feature. The company is further exploring the potential of Android XR on glasses, with prototype devices being seeded to select users, although a consumer launch date has not been specified.

Google's Android XR effort is not limited to its partnership with Samsung, as the company is working with other manufacturers, including Lynx, Sony, and XReal, which utilize Qualcomm's XR solutions. The company will also continue to collaborate with Magic Leap on XR, although it is unclear whether Magic Leap will adopt Android XR.

This is not Google's first foray into AR and VR, with previous attempts including Project Tango, Daydream, and Cardboard VR. However, the company hopes that Android XR will be a more successful and sustainable effort, appealing to both hardware manufacturers and software developers.

As the VR and AR markets continue to evolve, Google's Android XR platform is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of immersive experiences. With its focus on AI-infused features, compatibility with existing apps, and support for multiple devices, Android XR has the potential to become a dominant force in the industry.