Google previews Connected Apps Platform for Search and Gemini

Google on Wednesday previewed a Connected Apps Platform designed to let developers build once and distribute integrations across Search and the Gemini app, while also adding new partner apps to both products. The launch extends Google’s push to make third-party services available inside its AI and search surfaces, with developers able to register, test and submit apps through a single console, according to the company’s Oct. 28, 2026 post.

Evidence and context

Google said the Connected Apps Platform supports integrations through a cloud-hosted MCP server or Android MCP using the AppFunctions APIs, with developers managing submissions through Google Connected Console. Before review, developers can choose to launch in Search, the Gemini app or both. After launch, Google said developers will be able to monitor traffic, latency and error rates, and retain control of brand identity through verified logos and authenticated accounts.

The company said access will open in phases and that more developers, markets and Google products will be added over the coming months. In the same announcement, Google said it has launched more than 50 Connected Apps across Search and Gemini in categories including productivity, event ticketing, health and fitness. It named Adobe, Experian, Localiza and Peloton as live in Gemini, with Search expansion planned for the coming weeks, and said Calm will be added across both products.

The announcement adds to a broader wave of platform and workflow integration efforts across AI products. A separate Oct. 27, 2026 OpenAI announcement described an expanded Oracle partnership to bring applications and data into ChatGPT, while Okta in June outlined a Cross App Access partner ecosystem focused on secure AI-agent connections. Those announcements point to a wider push by software companies to let users access external tools and data from within conversational and search interfaces, though each initiative differs in scope and deployment details.

Google did not provide a timing update for full availability beyond saying the Connected Apps Platform preview is open and access will expand in phases. The company also did not quantify adoption, revenue impact or developer demand beyond the count of more than 50 Connected Apps already available.