Google Android XR is here, and it’s not your typical Android experience—Here’s the difference

Android XR is the latest operating system of GoogleBut it’s not your typical mobile operating system. It is a completely new operating system built for next generation computing. Developed in partnership with Samsung, Android XR is specifically designed for AR and VR experiences. Although it is designed for headphones and glasses, its capabilities extend far beyond these devices. Currently, Android XR is available in developer preview, providing support for a wide range of tools. Here’s everything you need to know about Android XR.

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Google Gemini and other key features coming to Android XR

Gemini will play a major role in how Android XR works, as you’ll be able to chat with Gemini about what you’re seeing or controlling with your headset. Google says Gemini can understand your intentions, help you plan and then research topics and guide you through everything.

For this operating system, Google is also redesigning a lot of popular Google apps, including YouTube. You’ll be able to watch YouTube on a virtual big screen, similar to how you can watch on Apple’s Vision Pro and VisionOS headsets. Another major feature coming to Android XR is Google Photos in 3D, which is similar to what you get with spatial photos and videos on the Vision Pro.

Another key feature is Google Maps and the ability to use it in new ways, allowing you to view cities and landmarks in an immersive way. Additionally, you’ll be able to use Chrome through multiple intuitive screens, making multitasking easier. And of course, Google and AI go hand in hand, so features like Circle to Search will also be available in Android XR, allowing you to quickly find information about what’s in front of you with just a single gesture. simple.

Furthermore, Google promises that all Android mobile and tablet apps available on Google Play will be compatible with Android XR, ensuring seamless functionality without any compatibility issues .

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How is Android XR different from Android 15 and Android 16?

Android XR is designed specifically for virtual reality and mixed reality headsets, but it’s not limited to them. By comparison, Android 15 and Android 16 are designed strictly for mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets. Another difference is that Android XR is a completely new operating system, while Android 15 is an iterative upgrade that has been updated for years.

Another big difference is that Android XR was developed in partnership with Samsung, while Android 15 and Android 16 are solely Google’s products.

Google says Android XR will be available first on headphones. And Samsung will produce the first device running Android XR, currently codenamed Project Moohan. It will be available for purchase next year.

Google is also testing a prototype of glasses running Android XR. Google has announced that it will begin testing a prototype of glasses running on Android XR in the real world. These glasses running Android XR will enable seamless connectivity with other Android devices. Google says Gemini will be just a tap away from providing information like directions, translations and message summaries.

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