Google just announced Gemini powered AI glasses and Apple should be paying attention

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Google is entering the smart glasses market with its first Gemini-powered “intelligent eyewear,” set to launch later this fall. The company is working with Samsung, along with eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, for the upcoming release.

The upcoming glasses will run on Android XR, Google’s platform built for smart glasses and XR devices. Instead of adding AR displays directly into the lenses, Google is taking a simpler approach focused on AI features powered by onboard cameras, microphones, and speakers.

Google previewed two designs during the announcement, one from Gentle Monster and another from Warby Parker, while also confirming that both brands will launch full collections when the glasses become available.

Gemini AI powers navigation, translation, and more

At the center of the experience is Gemini integration. Users can activate Gemini by saying “Hey Google” or by tapping the side of the frame. Google says the AI assistant can understand what users are looking at and provide contextual information in real time.

The glasses will support several AI-powered features, including:

• Real-time contextual information about surroundings, such as restaurant reviews, cloud identification, or explanations for signs
• Turn-by-turn navigation with voice guidance
• Calling, texting, and message summaries
• Music playback
• Photo and video capture
• AI-powered image editing through Google’s Nano Banana image engine
• Real-time language translation
• Multi-step task completion, such as ordering coffee through DoorDash
• Voice-based smartphone app controls

Google also confirmed that the upcoming glasses will work with iPhones alongside Android devices, allowing them to function across both major smartphone ecosystems.

Also read: Everything Google announced at I/O 2026: Gemini 3.5, AI Search, smart glasses, and more

Meanwhile, Apple is also developing its own AI-powered smart glasses. Rumors suggest Apple’s version could offer similar functionality, though the product is not expected to arrive before 2027.

Google also teased future “display glasses” that will include a small in-lens display capable of showing information directly from Gemini. However, that product is planned for a later release.

Would you actually wear AI-powered smart glasses instead of relying on your phone every time? Let us know in the comments.

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