Google will launch their first AI glasses in 2026

Google said Monday it will introduce its first AI-powered glasses in 2026 as the company accelerates efforts to challenge Meta in the expanding market for consumer AI devices.

The company plans two product types. One will feature audio-only capabilities that let users interact with the Gemini assistant. The other will include an in-lens display that can show navigation details, translations and other information. Google said the first models will arrive next year but did not specify which versions will be released.

The announcement highlighted Google’s work with several hardware partners. The company is collaborating with Samsung, Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, which disclosed in a Monday filing that its first jointly developed glasses are expected in 2026. Google previously committed $150 million to the Warby Parker partnership in May.

The new devices will run on Android XR, the operating system Google uses for its headset line. The update follows Google’s statement in May that it planned to return to the smart glasses category. At that time, co-founder Sergey Brin said earlier attempts faltered due to limited AI capabilities and supply chain gaps that contributed to high prices.

The broader AI wearables market has grown more active, with Meta gaining early traction. Meta’s Ray-Ban Meta glasses, produced with EssilorLuxottica, saw strong demand. Meta also introduced display-enabled glasses in September that show messages, photo previews and live captions through a small lens display.

Other companies, including Snap and Alibaba, have rolled out their own AI glasses as competition increases across the segment.

Google also announced software updates for the Galaxy XR headset. The company said the device will be able to connect to Windows PCs and will include a travel mode designed for use in cars and planes.