Android XR Is On Its Way – But Google Remains Quiet For Now

Recently, Google unveiled the itinerary for its forthcoming I/O developer conference. This high-profile event promises an array of developer-focused sessions due to shine a light on the much-anticipated Android XR operating system. However, the agenda suggests Google is keeping Android XR somewhat under wraps for now.

If you remember, Android XR was announced back in December alongside Samsung’s pioneering ‘Project Moohan’ mixed reality headset. Yet, neither product has a set launch date, although both are anticipated to debut publicly later this year.

Google has disclosed several Android XR features already. Among them is the eagerly awaited passthrough camera access. In addition, developers now have access to the Android XR SDK. Yet, we’re all keen to see how it measures up against established XR ecosystems like Meta’s Horizon OS and Apple’s visionOS.

The Google I/O is all set to roll out multiple keynotes streamed live from May 20th to 21st. In the lineup are two developer talks concentrated on Android XR; however, these sessions won’t be streamed. A ‘What’s New in Android’ livestream is on the cards, which promises to touch upon Android XR.

While the livestream might not reveal a ton of new details, the developer sessions focusing on Android XR indicate Google’s intent on providing robust support for developers. This move aims to gradually integrate XR into the larger Android ecosystem without making a big splash in a livestreamed address.

From the session descriptions, it seems Android XR is gearing up for a public launch later this year. Google is getting things ready with a fresh XR toolchain. This setup will blend Jetpack SceneCore and ARCore into a dedicated XR version of Jetpack, allowing developers to craft spatial layouts using 3D models and immersive environments. With the inclusion of ARCore, it seems Google is unifying its spatial computing tools, paving the way for developers to craft both AR and VR experiences seamlessly.

The sessions also delve into the incorporation of XR elements into existing apps, like 3D models, hand-tracking, and stereoscopic video. This strategy seemingly aims to attract a broader array of developers beyond just those focused on gaming. It’s apparent that Google wants Android XR to reach parity with the wider Android ecosystem.

Interestingly, Google plans to expand Jetpack Compose, its declarative UI toolkit, to XR. This move suggests the company seeks to standardize UI design across mobile, tablet, and XR platforms, simplifying the adaptation of UIs for immersive environments.

A noteworthy highlight from the second session is the mention of burgeoning AI capabilities within Android XR. This could pave the way for features like real-time object recognition, scene comprehension, and possibly AI-generated environments.

Neither of these discussions will be livestreamed, hinting that Google might not be ready to make a grand announcement about Android XR just yet. We’re also eager to learn more about Samsung’s impending ‘Project Moohan’ headset, potentially the first device to support Android XR.

Nevertheless, we’ll be watching the livestreams closely and reporting on the technical sessions, hoping to uncover something fresh and exciting.

Building Differentiated Apps for Android XR with 3D Content

Presented by Dereck Bridié, Developer Relations Engineer & Patrick Fuentes, Developer Relations Engineer

“Join us as we introduce Jetpack SceneCore and ARCore for Jetpack XR. We’ll guide developers through the process of integrating immersive content like 3D models, stereoscopic video, and hand-tracking into existing apps. Attendees will learn about new features in the Android XR SDK developer preview, gaining crucial knowledge for Android XR’s public launch later this year.”

The Future is Now, with Compose and AI on Android XR

Presented by Cecilia Abadie, Senior Product Manager & Jan Kleinert, Developer Relations Engineer

“Discover the future of immersive experiences with Android XR. This session reveals the latest upgrades to the Android XR SDK Beta, launching at I/O, encompassing enhancements to Jetpack Compose for XR and state-of-the-art AI capabilities. Learn how your current investments in large screen development can be extended, allowing you to easily venture into the thrilling realm of Android XR.”