What changed
Google has launched smartglasses powered by its Gemini AI model, available for preorder through Warby Parker and Gentle Monster. The devices feature a collaboration between Google, Samsung, and eyewear designers, offering both standard and tinted lenses in various color options. Pricing starts at $395 for Warby Parker models and $449 for Gentle Monster styles. The glasses include a 12 MP wide-angle camera and are designed to prioritize user privacy with features like a recording light and a physical off switch.
What this means in practice
The smartglasses allow users to interact with Gemini AI via voice or touch, enabling tasks like getting personalized answers, navigating with Google Maps, and receiving audio descriptions for visually impaired users. The glasses also support Gemini Guided Vision for recommendations based on visual input. Privacy measures include automatic face redaction, restrictions on live streaming, and the ability to delete voice interactions from Gemini history. However, data is not encrypted on Google's servers, and real-time facial recognition is not supported.
Limitations and availability
The smartglasses are available in the US and South Korea, with limited compatibility for Android devices requiring a Pixel 7 or newer, or a Samsung Galaxy S or Z series running One UI 9 or later. iPhone users from the 13 Pro onward are supported. The devices will ship on December 10, with preorder options available on the respective retailers' websites. The effectiveness of these glasses depends heavily on the reliability of Gemini AI, which has shown inconsistencies in testing.
