Google Opens Gemini and Search to More Apps With Connected Platform
Google has launched a new developer platform designed to let businesses integrate their services into its AI-powered experiences across Search and Gemini.
Radwan AbdulhadiEditor and technology writer
Expanding Third-Party Integrations Across AI Experiences
Google is making it easier for businesses to connect their apps to its AI experiences across Search and Gemini with the debut of its Connected Apps Platform, as reported by <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2026/10/28/as-ai-agents-reshape-the-web-google-opens-gemini-and-search-to-more-apps/">TechCrunch</a>.
Originally introduced in Gemini and <a href="https://blog.google/products-and-platforms/products/search/connected-apps/">Google Search</a> earlier this year, connected apps allow users to securely link and interact with popular third-party services to take specific actions. For example, users can connect to Canva to design a flyer or to YouTube Music to build a playlist.
Other consumer-facing AI services like <a href="https://help.openai.com/en/articles/11487775-connected-apps-in-chatgpt">ChatGPT</a> and Meta’s Muse have explored similar concepts. The overarching premise is that such integrations could ultimately shift consumer behavior away from launching individual applications and toward interacting with favorite services directly through a preferred AI provider.
Developer Platform and Integration Process
To successfully capture and retain consumer attention, platforms require a wide range of connected apps to explore. Google's strategy involves opening its doors to any business or developer wanting to reach users through Search or Gemini by allowing them to submit their own connected apps and monitor their performance.
The platform preview is currently available in beta to developers in the U.S., allowing them to build and submit apps for Google's products. Developers can get started by integrating with a cloud-hosted Model Context Protocol (MCP) server or Android MCP using the AppFunctions APIs, then utilize the Google Connected Console to register, test, and submit their application.
This process enables developers to connect their software to Google's infrastructure so it can function seamlessly with the search giant's AI features. Developers also retain the flexibility to choose whether their app is accessible via Search, the <a href="https://blog.google/innovation-and-ai/products/gemini-app/next-evolution-gemini-app/">Gemini</a> app, or both.
Performance Tracking and Brand Control
Once an application goes live, developers gain access to tools enabling them to track traffic, latency, and error rates. Furthermore, creators maintain control over their brand identity, which includes verified logos and authenticated accounts.
Industry observers note that this ecosystem mirrors how search engine optimization (SEO) allowed companies and websites to improve visibility in traditional search engine rankings. This release could represent one of the initial steps for businesses wanting greater visibility among users navigating the agentic web.
Current Partners and Upcoming Rollout Plans
Google currently features <a href="https://support.google.com/gemini/table/17434654?sjid=9446260877278612836-NC">over 50 Connected Apps available in Gemini</a>, contributed by partners like Adobe, Experian, Localiza, and Peloton, alongside the tech giant's own services such as Workplace, Photos, YouTube Music, and Google Home.
These integrations are scheduled to roll out to Google Search over the coming weeks. Search currently supports fewer integrations, including apps like Instacart, Canva, YouTube Music, and Yahoo Fantasy Football.
Additionally, Google announced that meditation app Calm is joining the initiative and will soon launch on both Gemini and Search. The new Connected Apps platform remains in public preview for U.S. developers who sign up via the waitlist, though Google has not yet specified a timeline for broader availability.
Sources
- TechCrunchAs AI agents reshape the web, Google opens Gemini and Search to more apps
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