Android XR is on the Horizon – But Google is Keeping It Low-Key for Now

Google’s I/O developer conference is just around the corner, and the tech giant has finally released the schedule. Tucked within it are sessions aimed at developers seeking insights into the new Android XR operating system. However, if you were hoping for Google to be loudly trumpeting Android XR, you’ll find the reveal to be more of a whisper than a shout.

Since Google unveiled Android XR alongside Samsung’s intriguing ‘Project Moohan’ mixed reality headset last December, details have been scarce, and firm launch dates remain elusive. Both innovations are expected to hit the market sometime this year, though.

There’s been some buzz around features like passthrough camera access, which developers can now tinker with using the Android XR SDK. But the burning question remains: how will Android XR measure up against stalwarts like Meta’s Horizon OS or Apple’s visionOS?

From May 20th to the 21st, Google I/O will feature numerous keynotes available via livestream, but Android XR enthusiasts may be a bit disappointed. Only two developer talks on Android XR have been planned, and neither will be livestreamed. Luckily, the ‘What’s New in Android’ broadcast promises a sneak peek.

While we may not get the juicy details live on-screen, those developer sessions hint at Google’s strategy to entice developers into the XR space, integrating it with their well-established Android platform—albeit maneuvering quietly away from the main stage.

So, what’s on the agenda at these sessions? Android XR is gearing up for a debut later this year, and it seems Google is assembling a fresh XR toolkit. They’re packaging Jetpack SceneCore and ARCore into Jetpack XR, now available for developers to preview. This kit empowers Android app developers, whether mobile or large screen, to dive into creating spatial layouts with tools like 3D models and immersive environments. The blending of ARCore implies Google is strengthening its spatial tools, streamlining the development of both AR and VR experiences.

Another focus is on enriching existing apps with XR features, such as 3D models, hand-tracking, and stereoscopic video. This approach aims to attract all sorts of developers, not just gaming enthusiasts, setting the stage for Android XR to reach feature parity with the broader Android ecosystem.

In an unexpected yet exciting twist, Google is extending Jetpack Compose into the XR domain. This move highlights their commitment to harmonizing UI design across devices, from mobiles to tablets and now into XR, simplifying transitions and adaptations for immersive interfaces.

Perhaps most thrilling, though, is the glimpse into AI-powered enhancements coming to Android XR. Future possibilities may include real-time object recognition, scene understanding, or even AI-crafted environments, pointing towards an exciting horizon in immersive tech.

However, the absence of livestreaming for these sessions suggests Google is playing its cards close to its chest. It’s reminiscent of the anticipation surrounding Samsung’s ‘Project Moohan,’ which is anticipated to debut with Android XR compatibility.

We’ll be keenly watching these developments, tuning into the streams, and eagerly diving into the technical talks to uncover any fresh revelations.

Building differentiated apps for Android XR with 3D content

Dereck Bridié and Patrick Fuentes, both Developer Relations Engineers, are set to guide developers through using Jetpack SceneCore and ARCore within Jetpack XR. Their focus is on infusing immersive content—think 3D models, stereoscopic video, and hand-tracking—into existing applications. Attendees will leave with insights from the Android XR SDK developer preview, gearing up for Android XR’s public unveiling later this year.

The future is now, with Compose and AI on Android XR

Cecilia Abadie, Senior Product Manager, and Jan Kleinert, Developer Relations Engineer, invite you to explore the exciting future of Android XR. This session will delve into new updates for the Android XR SDK Beta, like enhancements for Jetpack Compose in XR and fresh AI functionalities. They’ll showcase how existing investments in large-screen development can easily pivot into the vibrant Android XR space.