Google launches Connected Apps Platform to bring third-party apps into Gemini and Search

Google on October 28 announced the Connected Apps Platform, which it describes as a "unified way for more app developers to bring their capabilities directly into Gemini and Search." Until now, building a Connected App required working closely with Google. The platform opens that process to more developers, according to 9to5Google.

What exists today

Third-party Connected Apps in the Gemini app already cover Adobe, Dropbox, Instacart, OpenTable, Ticketmaster and other services, now numbering over 50. Google also announced a Calm integration that will be available in the coming weeks.

These @-integrations sit alongside first-party offerings including Google Workspace, Photos and YouTube.

How developers build Connected Apps

Google bills the platform as a way to "build once and reach high-intent users." The requirements and workflow are as follows:

• Technical requirement: a cloud-hosted MCP server, or an Android MCP using the AppFunctions APIs.
• Process: developers register, test and submit their Connected Apps through the new Google Connected Console.
• Console features: the website lets developers track traffic, latency and error rates, and control brand identity.
• Distribution choice: developers can "choose whether [their app] will go live in Search, the Gemini app, or both."

Search availability

Google will soon make existing Connected Apps available in Search. A date for the Search rollout was not given.

Access and timing

Developers can sign up for the preview at developers.google.com/connected-apps. Google is opening access in phases over the coming months. Pricing, revenue terms and any fees for developers are not yet disclosed.

The Gemini app also gained a new Customize page as part of its recent redesign.

What this means

The platform changes how third-party apps reach Gemini: from a process that required close work with Google to a self-service route built on MCP servers and Android AppFunctions. Using MCP as the entry point means developers with an existing cloud-hosted MCP server have a defined path to submission, and Android developers have a separate path through AppFunctions.

The per-surface choice between Search, the Gemini app or both gives developers control over where their app appears. The Connected Console's traffic, latency and error-rate reporting gives them operational visibility after launch. Because access opens in phases over the coming months, developers should expect to join a waitlist-style preview rather than publish immediately.