Google previews Connected Apps Platform for Search and Gemini

Google launched a preview of its Connected Apps Platform on 28 October 2026. It gives developers one place to build an app and bring it into both Google Search and the Gemini app. Google says developers can "build once and reach high-intent users across both Search and the Gemini app."

Access is limited for now. Google says it is opening access in phases and will add developers, markets and Google products over the coming months.

How it works

Developers connect through a cloud-hosted MCP server, or through Android MCP using the AppFunctions APIs. They then register, test and submit the app in the Google Connected Console. Before review, they choose whether the app goes live in Search, in Gemini or in both.

After launch, developers can track traffic, latency and error rates. They keep control of their brand identity, including verified logos and authenticated accounts.

Searchers do not see every app by default. According to Search Engine Roundtable, a person has to add an app to their personalized Google Search settings first.

Google says more than 50 Connected Apps already exist across Search and Gemini, in areas such as productivity, event ticketing, and health and fitness. Adobe, Experian, Localiza and Peloton are live in Gemini and are due to reach Search in the coming weeks. Calm is a new partner that launches in both.

Why it matters

This is a new way to be found in Google. Instead of only ranking a page, a business can offer an action inside the answer: book, check, buy or look something up. Google's own wording points to "high-intent users", the people already trying to get something done.

It also shows where Google is heading. Search and Gemini are being treated as one surface, with MCP as the way outside services plug in. Marie Haynes, quoted by Search Engine Roundtable, called it "something even bigger for Search Marketers" and said businesses will be found if they help people and their agents get things done. John Mueller said on LinkedIn that he is "super excited about connected apps as a search platform", and added that he does not work on the project.

For most small teams, nothing changes overnight. The preview is gated, and users must opt in to each app. But the direction is clear, and early partners get a head start.

What to do this week

• Read the Connected Apps documentation and sign up for the preview if you have an app or a service people use to get things done.
• List the tasks customers try to complete with your brand, such as booking, quotes or status checks. Those are your candidates for an app.
• Check whether your product has an API or MCP server today. If not, ask your developers what it would take.
• Keep your content strong. Apps sit beside answers, not in place of them, so AI answers still need to cite and describe your brand correctly.
• Watch your own site chat. Visitors who arrive with a task in mind need quick answers on your pages, whatever Google does next.