Google and Samsung unveiled their AI eyewear launch at Google I/O 2026 on May 19. The two companies previewed a pair of smart glasses designs set to arrive in selected markets later this year. The wearables will rely heavily on artificial intelligence features.
AI Eyewear Launch Details
The designs were created in partnership with spectacles brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. Google refers to the range as intelligent eyewear, combining AI with everyday wearability. The glasses pair to a mobile phone and use the Android XR platform built by Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm.
Two Designs and AI Integration
Google plans to release two types of smart glasses. One version will provide spoken help in a user’s ear. The other will present information in the field of vision. Both connect with AI service Gemini. The audio-support version is scheduled to launch first.
Applications include finding restaurant reviews as a user passes them, reading text messages aloud, real-time translation, and remote operation of an embedded camera. These functions demonstrate the artificial intelligence capabilities at the core of the devices.
Industry Statements and Vision
“With this new AI form-factor, we are further expanding the Galaxy device ecosystem, where each device is optimised to deliver unique AI experiences that best fit each form.”
Jay Kim, Samsung EVP and head of customer experience office, Mobile eXperience division
Google VP and GM of Android XR Shahram Izadi called the devices “a powerful step forward in our shared vision with Samsung to make AI more helpful and accessible in everyday life.” The smart devices represent a renewed push into the category after Google Glass failed to gain traction and was discontinued in 2023.
Market Context and Growth
The smart glasses sector is seeing a resurgence. Counterpoint Research reported global smart glasses shipments rose 139% year-on-year in the second half of 2025. Meta Platforms led with an 82% market share, driven by its Ray-Ban range produced with Luxottica. The new AI eyewear launch from Google and Samsung enters a growing competitive field.
General technology advances since the original Google Glass days have improved the viability of smart eyewear. The partnership between Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm brings together expertise in software, hardware, and mobile chipsets.
The AI eyewear launch marks an important step in Samsung’s vision for AI, according to Jay Kim. The company aims to expand its Galaxy device ecosystem with form-factor-specific AI experiences. Google and Samsung have not yet disclosed pricing or exact release dates for the AI eyewear launch.
