Google to launch first of its AI glasses in 2026

On Monday, 8 December 2025, Google officially confirmed the arrival of its first AI-powered glasses in 2026. The company is working on two different kinds of glasses and has thus officially started the race with competitors Meta and Apple.

For the first time since the plans for Google Glass were put away nearly a decade ago, Google is once again working towards the launch of a pair of smart glasses. On 8 December 2025, the company confirmed it was collaborating with Samsung, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker to design two separate pairs of AI-powered glasses, the first of which should be released over the course of 2026.

“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”, the company said in a press release.

While the $150 million partnership between the four companies was first revealed earlier this year, until now, it remained unclear whether or not the glasses would actually be developed and sold. The collaboration is meant to make sure of the fact that the eyewear will be both highly intelligent and comfortable to wear for everyday use. Google’s Gemini AI model, integrated through the Android XR ecosystem, will be at the core of the AI-powered glasses and should make them apt to provide assistance for everyday life.

A handy tool for travellers

While further details about the Google glasses, such as pricing and battery life, have not yet been unveiled, they already show the potential to become a staple for tech-savvy travellers. Even the audio-only version without an in-lens display can make a big difference while on the way. For example, it allows users to ask the Gemini AI model questions without the need to consult their smartphone. Moreover, the glasses can also take a picture and provide audio information when requested, or even translate (parts of) a conversation – a very handy tool, especially when spending time abroad.

Those who are not ready to wait can, however, already find similar and maybe even more advanced glasses at Google’s competitors. Meta’s new AI smart glasses combine augmented reality (AR) with artificial intelligence (AI), allowing users to access messages, captions, and video calls over the view from one eye. Meanwhile, Apple’s Vision Pro offers a less travel-friendly immersive experience.