The second Android N developer preview has been released and contains references to “Virtual Reality Listener” and “Virtual Reality Helper” apps as well as a permissions warning informing demo users that the suitable apps “will be able to run when you are using applications in virtual reality mode.”
The discovery was noted by Ars Technica who also found that “the VR helper services screen will show a list of apps that plug into this API, and users can allow or deny the permission.” VR apps will still have to be developed for this mode to see much use but the fact that Google is giving official API support indicates that the company is willing to hedge its bets.
With everyone taking steps into virtual reality from Facebook, HTC and even Huawei, it makes sense that Google is jumping into the growing market; their previous and only venture into VR was Google Cardboard, though it is rumoured that the technology giant is working on a Gear VR-like headset.
Android N includes a split-screen mode for tablet multitasking, revamped emoji and built-in support for 3D Touch-style pressure sensitivity.
