In a notable development within the tech landscape, Google has recently introduced the Android Glasses Core app as part of its latest Android beta update. While the app currently appears to be a placeholder, it shares the same package name as the companion application for the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2, which raises intriguing possibilities for its future use.
Anticipating Android XR
Samsung has been hinting at a new extended reality (XR) product since early last year, yet many details remain elusive. The XR hardware is expected to launch in 2025, powered by a Qualcomm chipset, but specifics regarding its software foundation are still under wraps. What is known is that a collaborative effort between Samsung, Qualcomm, and Google is underway to develop a new version of Android tailored for XR devices, aptly named Android XR. However, the integration of Android XR with existing mobile Android systems is still a mystery.
The recent beta release of Android 15 has sparked interest, as it not only introduces new features but also resurrects some dormant ones, including a non-functional Linux Terminal app. Among the updates, users have discovered the Android Glasses Core app, which is categorized as a privileged system app. This particular app has not been previously available for public download, nor can it be found on APK hosting sites or Google Play. The current version in the beta is a stub package, offering little insight into its functionality.
Interestingly, this isn’t the first encounter with the Android Glasses Core app. A developer shared a copy of it last year, revealing its role as a companion app for the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 smart glasses, launched in 2019. When paired with an Android phone, this app facilitated streaming applications and allowed users to adjust various settings.
Despite the discontinuation of the Glass Enterprise Edition 2 and the absence of any announcements regarding new hardware, Google appears to be revitalizing the Android Glasses Core app. The version included in the recent beta is not only newer than the one previously shared but also features a refreshed icon, suggesting a potential shift in purpose.
This leads to speculation that Google may be repurposing the Android Glasses Core app for forthcoming Android XR products. If this is indeed the case, it would be logical for Google to leverage existing work from the Google Glass companion app. While it’s likely that Android Glasses Core will function behind the scenes to support cross-device features, the specifics remain unclear due to the current stub package.
As the tech community eagerly anticipates the unveiling of Android XR and Samsung’s XR product, there are signs that preparations are in motion. Recent hints indicate that the Google Play Store is gearing up for applications designed for Android XR headsets, suggesting a seamless installation process from any device with Play Store access. Samsung has also expressed its commitment to enhancing connectivity among its products, including upcoming XR devices, aiming to elevate user experiences within the Galaxy ecosystem. This indicates a promising launch timeline for next year.
