Google ignored indie VR and XR game developers at GDC 2025, raising concerns about what to expect from Android-based headsets like Project Moohan. Social media reports indicated that many top-selling Quest developers were turned away from Google’s Android XR boot camps.
Despite Google’s usual strong presence at GDC, the lack of outreach to indie VR devs, panels, or demos is noticeable. This contrasts with Meta’s active promotion of its new passthrough tech and store profitability at the same conference.
While it’s possible that Google may have conducted closed-door Android XR discussions with larger VR publishers, the absence of public engagement with indie developers remains a point of contention.
The upcoming Google I/O 2025 program may focus on Android XR to attract 2D app developers. Some VR gaming developers are skeptical about Android XR’s approach, especially after the reported rejection of top Quest devs from Google’s boot camps.
Will Android XR ignore the indie VR gaming scene?
The focus on productivity and enterprise applications in Android XR may overlook the potential of indie VR gaming developers. Some developers feel that Google’s approach to Android XR is sidelining the gaming community and may hinder the platform’s success.
While it’s unclear if Google is fully disregarding Quest developers, there is a sense of skepticism among some VR developers regarding Google’s strategy for Android XR. The emphasis on productivity headsets over gaming raises questions about the platform’s direction.
What is Google’s Android XR strategy?
Concerns have been raised about Google’s approach to Android XR, particularly in its neglect of the indie VR gaming scene. This has led to doubts about the platform’s potential success and the role gaming will play in its future.
While it’s possible that Google has different priorities for Android XR, the lack of outreach or acknowledgment of the gaming community is a point of contention among developers.
Hopefully, Google will address these concerns and provide more clarity on its strategy for Android XR, especially in relation to the indie VR gaming scene, at the upcoming Google I/O in May.