According to recent discoveries in the app store code, Google is preparing to expand the reach of its Play Store to include augmented reality (XR) headsets. This move indicates that Google is preparing for a significant expansion into the XR market, potentially with its own hardware or through partnerships with other manufacturers.
The latest version of the Play Store app includes a new XR headset icon and a link to “XR headset” in app listings. This indicates that Google is working on creating a separate section for XR apps, similar to the existing categories for smartphones, tablets, and wearables.
Play Store is expanding to XR
Although Google has previously experimented with XR through initiatives such as Cardboard and Daydream, these efforts were primarily focused on mobile virtual reality. The upcoming support for the XR headset indicates a more serious commitment to the technology and a desire to compete with other major players in the market.
The timing of this development coincides with Google’s ongoing collaboration with Samsung and Qualcomm on the new XR headset. This joint effort is aimed at creating a high-end XR device based on Android and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors. By integrating support for the XR into the Play Store, Google will be able to provide a robust ecosystem of apps and content for its upcoming headset.
Although the specific details of Google’s plans for XR remain unclear, the discovery of these code changes indicates that we may see an important announcement in the near future. This could be the launch of Google’s own XR headset, partnerships with other manufacturers, or simply an expansion of the Play Store to support existing XR devices.
Regardless of the way forward, Google’s move to support XR is a positive sign for the future of the technology. With the backing of a major player like Google, XR has the potential to become a major platform for gaming, entertainment, and productivity.
