The Google Play Store, a hub for a diverse array of applications tailored for Android devices, appears to be on the brink of expanding its offerings. Recent findings suggest that the platform is preparing to embrace a new category: extended reality (XR) headsets. This development aligns with the growing interest from tech giants like Google and Samsung in XR hardware, hinting at a future where Android apps will seamlessly integrate with immersive technologies.
Unveiling XR Support
For those unfamiliar, XR encompasses a broad spectrum of technologies, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). These innovations blend the physical and digital realms, creating experiences that are both engaging and interactive. As we delve into the latest version of the Play Store app, version 43.3.32-31, we uncover intriguing clues: a new icon resembling an XR headset and a text string explicitly referencing “XR headset.”
This subtle yet significant addition raises questions about the future direction of the Play Store. The prospect of a dedicated section for XR applications seems plausible, especially with the anticipated launch of next-generation Android-powered XR headsets. While various manufacturers have ventured into the XR space, their approaches to software have varied widely. For instance, some companies have developed headsets that leverage Android TV, while others have explored mobile-based VR solutions like Cardboard and Daydream, which have since waned in popularity.
The potential for Google to take XR applications seriously could serve as a crucial endorsement for manufacturers aiming to establish their XR products in a competitive market. As the industry gears up for the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in just a few months, anticipation builds around the unveiling of new hardware and the software ecosystems that will support them.
