# Google opens Connected Apps Platform so developers can add apps to Gemini and AI Mode

Published: 2026-10-28T17:32:00.251Z · Source: TechCrunch AI (https://techcrunch.com/2026/10/28/as-ai-agents-reshape-the-web-google-opens-gemini-and-search-to-more-apps/)
Source date: 2026-10-28
Flags: single-source — confirmation pending
Entities: google, gemini, ai-mode

Google has launched a Connected Apps Platform that lets businesses and developers submit their own apps for use inside Gemini and Google Search's AI Mode, per TechCrunch. It is in public preview for US developers, who join a waitlist; Google did not say when it will widen.

Developers integrate with a cloud-hosted MCP (Model Context Protocol) server, or Android MCP through the AppFunctions APIs, then register, test and submit the app in the Google Connected Console. They choose whether the app appears in Search, the Gemini app or both, and can track traffic, latency and error rates and manage brand details such as verified logos and authenticated accounts.

Until now the list was Google's to curate. Gemini has more than 50 connected apps, including Adobe, Experian, Localiza and Peloton, per TechCrunch, and those are due to reach Search over the next few weeks. Search's current set is smaller, including Instacart, Canva, YouTube Music and Yahoo Fantasy Football; the wire logged that AI Mode launch on July 20. Calm is named as a new partner launching on both surfaces.

The report does not say what Google requires to approve a submitted app.

Why it matters: It turns connected apps from a partner-by-partner list into an application process with traffic reporting, which makes being an approved app a distribution channel inside Google's AI surfaces; Google has not said what approval requires or when the beta widens.

## What this answers

**How do developers get their app into Google AI Mode and Gemini?**

Through Google's new Connected Apps Platform, in US-only beta behind a waitlist. Developers integrate with a cloud-hosted MCP server or Android MCP via the AppFunctions APIs, then register, test and submit the app in the Google Connected Console, per TechCrunch.

**Which apps work with Google Search's AI Mode?**

Per TechCrunch, Search currently has fewer connected apps than Gemini, including Instacart, Canva, YouTube Music and Yahoo Fantasy Football. Gemini's 50-plus connected apps are due to come to Search over the next few weeks.


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