Google Unveils New Details on Android XR-Powered Smart Glasses Ahead of 2026 Launch
The plan was first announced at the Google I/O developer conference in May, alongside partnerships with eyewear brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster.
Google has shared fresh details about its upcoming smart glasses initiative, offering a closer look at how the Android XR–powered devices will function as the company prepares for a commercial launch next year.
The plan was first announced at the Google I/O developer conference in May, alongside partnerships with eyewear brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster.
Earlier this year, it was also reported that Samsung and Google are working together to launch new Android XR smart glasses in 2026.
During a virtual briefing this week, Google said it will initially introduce audio-focused smart glasses integrated with its Gemini AI assistant. These glasses will respond to voice commands and draw on data from microphones and front-facing cameras embedded in the frame.
According to the company, Gemini will be able to answer questions about the user’s surroundings, translate signs or menus, and recall visual information captured earlier in the day.
A second, more advanced model is expected to follow, featuring a built-in display. The on-lens screen will support tasks such as turn-by-turn navigation, contextual instructions, and step-by-step guidance for everyday activities.
Google’s move positions it in direct competition with Meta Platforms, which recently launched the Meta Ray-Ban Display smart glasses priced at $799.
Meta’s offering includes a Neural Band wrist accessory that enables gesture-based controls—an approach Google could potentially emulate, given its ownership of Fitbit.
Beyond its own devices, Google is also expanding the Android XR ecosystem. The company is collaborating with wearable maker XREAL on Project Aura, a display-equipped smart-glasses product due next year, powered by Qualcomm’s XR Gen 2 Plus chip and a tethered processing module.
To support developers, Google has released a new preview of the Android XR SDK, introducing sensor access tools, ready-made interface components, and system enhancements designed to improve image stability and enable seamless multitasking with Windows applications.
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