Google's XR OS: Smarter Glasses, Realistic Avatars Emerge

Google recently demonstrated a wave of updates and new features for its Android XR operating system during The Android Show. These advancements were showcased on various hardware, including Samsung's Galaxy XR headset and early versions of Xreal's smart glasses, highlighting impressive expanded capabilities for head-mounted displays.

The platform's integration with Google's Gemini AI allows for seamless interaction. Users can control music playback, answer calls, and even share their view through the glasses. A key focus for Android XR is simplifying app development, enabling easier porting of existing Android applications and supporting minimalist UIs or voice-only controls for lighter devices.

Significant progress has also been made in virtual representation with the introduction of "Likeness" avatars, offering realistic digital faces that surpass current offerings. Furthermore, Android XR's PC connectivity is robust, allowing for low-latency gaming and multitasking on tethered devices, pointing towards a more integrated and versatile future for extended reality hardware.