Android XR: Google is ready for smart glasses – with and without a screen

Google's smart glasses are coming: The company appears to have successfully completed the prototype phase of smart glasses based on Android XR and the Gemini AI platform. At the start of the Google I/O 2025 developer conference, the company spoke of a "big step" thanks to Android XR and now wants to launch the production of smart glasses after a development period of ten years.

Android XR: smart glasses with and without a display

As Google explains, smart glasses – will be equipped with a camera, microphones and speakers, similar to the models from Meta. When paired with a smartphone, users can access apps without having to take their smartphone out of their pocket.

As an option, a display can also be integrated into the lenses of the smart glasses. This screen allows users to discreetly call up information such as navigation details, messages, appointments and more.

In addition to Android XR, the software basis of the glasses also includes Google's AI model Gemini, which can see and hear the same things as the user thanks to "Project Astra". This enables the AI to understand the context of certain commands and remind the user of important things when they are needed.

At Google I/O 2024, the company showed an initial demo of Project Astra in which a user walked through the room with the camera activated and asked the AI at the end whether it had seen a pair of glasses. The answer came promptly: "The glasses are on the desk near a red apple."

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At I/O 2025, Google is now following up with a preview showing further examples of how Android XR glasses will work in real-life scenarios: Users can use the glasses to send messages to friends, make appointments, request directions via Google Maps or take photos.

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Google is also showing a live language translation between two people to demonstrate how the glasses can overcome language barriers and provide "subtitles for the real world".

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Smart glasses: Google expands partnership with Samsung – more on board

The company has not confirmed whether Google will build its own "Pixel" glasses. However, the company has confirmed its first partners: Together with eyewear manufacturers Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, the aim is to "develop stylish eyewear with Android XR". Rumor has it that Google also wanted to win over the well-known eyewear manufacturer Essilor Luxottica, but it already builds Ray-Ban glasses for Meta.

Google is also expanding its partnership with Samsung: In addition to the first MR headset, codenamed "Moohan", the South Korean technology giant is also set to offer smart glasses in the future.

"Together, we are developing a software and hardware reference platform that will enable the ecosystem to develop great glasses", says Google. Developers can start developing for the new platform this year.

It is unclear when the first smart glasses on the Android XR platform can be expected. Samsung's MR headset is due to be unveiled later this year.

(afl)