Google Debuts Android XR Operating System for Mixed Reality Headsets and Smart Glasses

Google unveiled Android XR, a new operating system for XR headsets and smart glasses, rivaling Apple's visionOS. Developed in partnership with Samsung, it targets next-generation computing. A developer preview is now available, enabling app creation for future devices. Samsung's first Android XR headset is slated for a 2025 release. The OS will offer variable immersion levels, similar to Apple Vision Pro. Google's AI assistant, Gemini, will integrate for assistance and task management. Popular Google apps like YouTube, Google Photos, and Google Maps will have XR-optimized features. Existing Google Play apps will be compatible. Smart glasses utilizing Android XR will offer quick access to Gemini. Early testing with prototype glasses is planned.