Google opens Gemini and Search to more apps with new platform

Google has introduced the Connected Apps Platform, a developer program that lets any business or developer build and submit apps for use inside Gemini and Google Search. The preview is in beta for developers in the U.S.

Connected apps arrived in Gemini and Search earlier this year. They let users securely link third-party services and take specific actions, such as designing a flyer in Canva or building a playlist in YouTube Music. Other AI services, including ChatGPT and Meta's Muse, have tried their own versions of the idea. The bet is that people will increasingly use their favorite services through an AI provider instead of opening each app separately.

How developers get started

According to Google, developers integrate with a cloud-hosted MCP (Model Context Protocol) server, or with Android MCP through the AppFunctions APIs. They then use the Google Connected Console to register, test and submit the app. Developers choose whether it appears in Search, the Gemini app, or both.

Once an app is live, the console shows traffic, latency and error rates. Developers also keep control of their brand identity, including verified logos and authenticated accounts.

Why it matters

For businesses, the program could work like an early form of SEO for the agentic web, a way to stay visible when AI systems handle tasks for users. For Google, the platform is a way to build the catalog of apps that such a model depends on.

Gemini already offers more than 50 connected apps, from partners such as Adobe, Experian, Localiza and Peloton, plus Google's own services including Photos, YouTube Music and Google Home. Those apps will come to Search over the next few weeks. Search currently has fewer integrations, including Instacart, Canva, YouTube Music and Yahoo Fantasy Football. Meditation app Calm is a new partner and will launch on both Gemini and Search soon.

The public preview is open to U.S. developers who join a waitlist. Google has not said when the platform will be more broadly available.