Google is gearing up to launch its first AI-powered smart glasses in 2026, intensifying the race in the wearable tech arena. Powered by the Gemini AI model, the two variants include a screen-free option for hands-free queries via built-in speakers, mics, and cameras — think real-time environmental insights and photo snaps — while the premium model adds an in-lens display for overlays like navigation or live translations. Partnering with Samsung for hardware, Warby Parker, and Gentle Monster for stylish, lightweight frames, these Android XR devices will rely on smartphone connectivity for heavy lifting.
This move directly challenges Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses dominance and could challenge Apple, amid rumors of its own AI glasses debut next year.
[W]e are working with Samsung and our partners Gentle Monster and Warby Parker to design stylish, lightweight glasses that you can wear comfortably all day. With our partners, we are working to create two types of glasses.
First, there are AI glasses designed for screen-free assistance, which use built-in speakers, microphones and cameras to let you chat naturally with Gemini, take photos and get help. And then there are display AI glasses, which add an in-lens display that privately shows you helpful information, right when you need it, like turn-by-turn navigation or translation captions. The first glasses will arrive next year.
Wired XR Glasses
Android XR will also support wired XR glasses that offer the unique blend of headset-like immersion and real-world presence in a portable form factor. Today, we shared a first look at Project Aura from XREAL (a Chinese AR eyewear company backed by Alibaba), the first Android XR device in this category.
Project Aura from XREAL
Equipped with a 70-degree field of view and optical see-through technology, these devices layer digital content directly onto your view of the physical world. This gives you a massive, private canvas to place multiple windows, allowing you to take your workspace or entertainment with you without blocking out your surroundings. They are perfect for practical everyday uses, too — like following a floating recipe video while you cook or seeing step-by-step visual guides anchored to an appliance you are fixing. We look forward to sharing more about the launch of Project Aura next year.
MacDailyNews Take: Due to the myopic incompetence of its so-called leadership, Apple’s smart glasses (and everything else) will also reportedly be powered by Google’s Gemini, so, in the interest of differentiation – not to mention Raison d’être des marges premium* — Apple’s frames had better be bangin’!
*excuse our french
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