Smart glasses have been “just around the corner” for years. What's different this time is who's involved, how the technology has matured, and — perhaps most importantly — that they actually look like glasses. At Google I/O 2026, Samsung and Google gave the first real look at their intelligent eyewear, built in partnership with premium eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker.
These are audio glasses — the display version comes later — and they're targeting a fall 2026 launch in select markets.
The Design Approach
Rather than building a device and finding a fashion partner to skin it, Samsung and Google co-developed the frames with both Gentle Monster and Warby Parker from the ground up. Gentle Monster is known for bold, disruptive aesthetics, and its collection reflects that — structured, fashion-forward frames that lean into the eyewear brand's identity. Warby Parker takes the opposite direction with refined, timeless designs that prioritize comfort and precision optics.
The goal was to create something people would actually wear all day without thinking about the tech inside. If the frames make you self-conscious, the whole premise falls apart.
What They Can Do
Wake word is “Hey Google,” or you can tap the frame. From there, Gemini handles the rest. Navigation is turn-by-turn and context-aware — the glasses know your orientation and can suggest nearby coffee stops along your route, or place a pickup order for you. You can send texts, manage calls, and get summaries of missed messages without touching your phone.
Real-time translation works both ways: you'll hear speech translated with audio that matches the speaker's voice tone and pitch, and you can look at a menu or sign to hear text translated in your line of sight. Photos and videos can be captured on command, with Nano Banana available to edit them immediately after — removing backgrounds or adding creative effects via voice.
Task automation is also built in. Gemini can run multi-step tasks in the background — like prepping a DoorDash order — while your phone stays in your pocket. You just confirm at the end. The glasses are compatible with both Android and iOS phones, which is a smart call given how many iPhone users would be interested in this category.
The Bigger Picture
This sits within Google's broader Android XR platform — the same foundation being used for headsets like the Samsung Project Moohan. The eyewear represents the more accessible, everyday entry point into that ecosystem. Two types are planned: audio glasses (launching first this fall) and display glasses, which will show information in your field of view and are coming later.
Pricing and full availability details haven't been shared yet, but more information is expected in the months before the fall launch window. Given the Gentle Monster and Warby Parker branding, expectations should be set toward premium pricing.
