Google Unveils Next-Gen AI Glasses With Samsung & Warby Parker — A Major Comeback for Smart Wearables
Google is officially stepping back into the smart-glasses arena, announcing a new lineup of AI-powered eyewear created in collaboration with Samsung, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker. The company shared the news in a December 8 blog post, revealing its plan to deliver stylish, lightweight glasses designed for all-day wear.
The initiative includes two distinct models: a pair of AI glasses built for screen-free assistance and a set of display-equipped AI glasses that can show information directly within the lens.
“For over a decade, we’ve been working on the concept of smart glasses. With Android XR, we’re taking a giant leap forward,” said Shahram Izadi, vice president and general manager of Android XR at Google. The platform will serve as the foundation for both upcoming models.
Two New Types of Google AI Glasses
The first model focuses on hands-free assistance, using onboard speakers, microphones, and cameras to allow wearers to talk with Gemini, capture photos, and access quick help without a screen. These glasses will be the first to hit the market, with Google confirming a release window of next year.
The second version incorporates an in-lens augmented display, showing private, glanceable information such as step-by-step navigation, real-time translation captions, and other contextual prompts. Both devices run on Android XR, Google’s operating system designed for mixed-reality wearables.
Project Aura: Google’s Wired XR Glasses
Google also revealed progress on Project Aura, a separate pair of wired XR glasses that deliver a near-headset level of immersion while remaining lightweight and portable. Featuring a 70-degree field of view and optical see-through capabilities, Aura overlays digital content onto the user’s environment without blocking their real-world visibility.
With this setup, wearers could follow a recipe while cooking, keep multiple virtual windows open for productivity, or access on-the-spot tutorials for repairs. Google says more details about Project Aura will be shared in 2026.
Warby Parker Deepens Partnership With Google
In May, Warby Parker finalized a $150 million partnership with Google to co-develop AI-enhanced eyewear. The deal includes $75 million dedicated to product development and another $75 million contingent on performance milestones.
The partnership puts Google in more direct competition with Meta, which joined forces with EssilorLuxottica to release Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses in 2023. Meta’s latest model, arriving with a built-in display and priced at $799, allows users to read messages, see photo previews, and access live captions through one of the lenses.
Google’s renewed push into wearables follows the company’s earlier trial with Google Glass in 2013 — a product ultimately discontinued after widespread privacy concerns. With a new generation of design partners and more powerful AI capabilities, Google appears ready to re-enter the market with a more refined vision of what smart eyewear can be.
