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AI Tech Flash ── 2026-10-29

Google opens Connected Apps platform for Gemini and Search

Google's new developer platform extends connected apps to Search

What changes

According to TechCrunch, building connected apps for Gemini used to require working closely with Google. 9to5Google reports the same. With the new platform, businesses and developers can register and submit their own apps.

Connected apps let users link outside services and have them take specific actions. TechCrunch gives two examples: designing a flyer in Canva and building a playlist in YouTube Music.

Why it matters

TechCrunch says such integrations could shift consumer behavior. People might use their favorite services through their preferred AI provider instead of opening individual apps. The outlet adds that success depends on a wide range of connected apps.

Google is opening its doors to any business or developer. TechCrunch writes that this could be one of the first steps for businesses that want visibility on the agentic web, meaning a web where AI agents act for users.

What it is

The Connected Apps Platform lets app developers bring their apps into Gemini and Google Search. According to 9to5Google, Google calls it a unified way for more developers to bring their capabilities into both.

Developers register, test, and submit apps in the Google Connected Console, a new website. They can choose to go live in Search, the Gemini app, or both.

Who and where

Google built the platform. TechCrunch reports that the preview is in beta for developers in the U.S., who must sign up for a waitlist.

Google did not say when it will be more broadly available. 9to5Google reports that access will open in phases over the coming months. The Decoder reports that the 50-plus integrations will reach Google's web search in the coming weeks.

Why it was built

The problem is the small number of connected apps and the effort to build them. 9to5Google reports that creation previously required working closely with Google.

TechCrunch notes that as AI services pull users toward their own integrations, a thin app selection makes it hard to hold attention. Google describes the platform as a way to build once and reach high-intent users.

How it works

Developers connect to a cloud-hosted MCP server, or to Android MCP using the AppFunctions APIs. MCP, the Model Context Protocol, is a standard for sharing an app's functions with AI agents. The Decoder calls it a unified tool-calling layer.

Developers then register, test, and submit the app in the Google Connected Console. After launch, they can track traffic, latency, and error rates. They can also manage brand elements such as verified logos and authenticated accounts.

Key points

  1. Google announced the Connected Apps Platform so developers can register and submit connected apps themselves.
  2. Developers connect through a cloud-hosted MCP server or Android MCP with AppFunctions APIs, and choose Search, Gemini, or both.
  3. Gemini has over 50 connected apps, coming to Search within weeks. The platform is in U.S. beta with a waitlist.

Conclusion

Google is moving connected-app creation from close work with Google to developer self-service. According to TechCrunch and 9to5Google, the preview is U.S.-only and will expand in phases. No date for general availability has been given.

Quotes and sources

“Google’s idea is to open its doors to any business or developer that wants to reach users through Search or Gemini by allowing them to submit their own connected apps and monitor their performance.”
── TechCrunch, 2026-10-28
“The platform preview is currently available in beta to developers in the U.S., and will allow developers to build and submit apps that can be used across Google’s products.”
── TechCrunch, 2026-10-28
“Developers need to have a cloud-hosted MCP server or Android MCP using the AppFunctions APIs.”
── 9to5Google, 2026-10-28
“Google says over 50 partner integrations from companies like Adobe, Peloton, and Experian are already live in the Gemini app, and they will roll out to web search in the coming weeks.”
── The Decoder, 2026-10-28

Source articles

Written by AI (Claude) from the cited articles, then checked by Jev (TypeSafe's judgement model), a Gemini fact-check and a verbatim check of every quote.