Google opens Gemini and Search to third‑party apps via Connected Apps Platform

The new platform lets any business submit a connected app for use in Google Search and Gemini, with a beta currently limited to U.S. developers.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 28 Oct 2026 20:33:23 GMT

Google announced a Connected Apps Platform that allows developers to link third‑party services to its Gemini AI and Search experiences, the company said on Oct. 28, 2026.

What happened

The platform preview is in beta for developers in the United States. It enables businesses to submit connected apps that users can securely link to Gemini or Search and then invoke to perform actions such as creating a Canva design or building a YouTube Music playlist. Google said the preview will let developers monitor performance of their apps.

What the reports add

TechCrunch reported that the Connected Apps concept was introduced earlier in the year and that Google is now opening the doors to any business or developer that wants to reach users through Search or Gemini.
Both outlets noted that more than 50 Connected Apps are already available, naming Adobe, Experian, Localiza, Peloton and Calm among others.
Digital Trends added that Google plans to bring the existing Gemini apps to Search in the coming weeks.
TechCrunch detailed the technical flow: developers integrate with a cloud‑hosted MCP (Model Context Protocol) server or Android MCP using the AppFunctions APIs, then use the Google Connected Console to register, test, and submit their app.
Both sources said developers can track traffic, latency and error rates after launch and maintain control over brand identity such as verified logos and authenticated accounts.
TechCrunch described the platform as a “public preview for U.S. developers who sign up for the waitlist.”
Digital Trends highlighted that the new platform lets developers build once and choose whether the app works with Gemini, Search, or both, and provides a central dashboard for testing, review and performance tracking.

What was said

"Google said meditation app Calm is another new partner on this effort, and that its app will soon launch on both Gemini and Search."

The quote appears in TechCrunch’s coverage of the announcement.

How it came about

The Connected Apps Platform builds on earlier Gemini developments. In mid‑October, Google launched the Gemini 4 Argon model for developers and enterprises (see Felo coverage). Earlier in the month, Google added Personal Intelligence to Gemini for cars, expanding the AI’s reach into new contexts. The new platform follows a series of updates aimed at integrating external services more tightly with Google’s AI products.

Key facts

Google's Connected Apps Platform is in beta for U.S. developers. (techcrunch.com)
The platform lets developers submit apps that can be invoked from Gemini and Search. (techcrunch.com)
More than 50 connected apps are already available, including Adobe and Calm. (digitaltrends.com)