The Google I/O 2026 event from yesterday was packed with announcements. The company unveiled its latest and “strongest” model yet, the Gemini 3.5 Flash. Alongside, Google also announced Gemini Omni, a new model that can generated anything from any input.
Well, the list of announcements didn’t end there, as we also got see the Android XR smart glasses, which both Google and Samsung have been developing behind the doors, in collaboration with Qualcomm and eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker.
Google and Samsung jointly announce the first Android XR smart glasses
Google, during the announcement, noted that there will be two types of Android XR smart glasses. The first one, which the company prefers calling “audio glasses,” will apparently offer spoken help in your ear. Meanwhile, the other one, “display glasses” will show you the information you need, right when you need it. Needless to say, both Android XR smart glasses will remain hands-free and heads up, and get you help from Gemini just by asking.
Google has confirmed that audio glasses will be the first o e to launch, later this fall. So, how does it work, you may be thinking, right? Well, Google mentions that all you have to do is say “Hey Google” or tap the side of the frame. As a result, Gemini wakes up. Next, you have ask questions, and the glasses will then give answers about the world around you or even handle tasks without needing to pull out your phone. Given the design language, the company is launching it as your everyday glasses rather than just another wearable gadget.
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Bisual understanding is possibly the biggest feature of these Android XR smart glasses. As Google notes, you can ask Gemini about anything the new “intelligent” eyewear see nearby. You can simply look towards a nearby restaurant and ask Gemini about its review, identify formation of cloud, and a lot more. Navigation is another key area where Google thinks these new smart glasses would fit perfectly. Gemini can offer turn-by-turn navigation right through the eyewear. The AI assistant can also add stops mid-route or recommendany nearby restaurant based on your preferences.
Hands-free features, real-time translation, and more
Since, Google is marketing these as hands-free smart eyewear, you can manage calls, send texts, summarize missed notifications, or listen to music through built-in private speakers without touching their phones. The smart glasses also support photo and video capture. With simple voice prompts, users can snap pictures and then use Nano Banana tools to edit them instantly. Google even demonstrated prompts where Gemini automatically added funny hats to people inside photos.
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Real-time translation is another major part of the experience. Gemini can translate spoken conversations and written text while preserving the tone and pitch of the original speaker more naturally.Meanwhile, Gemini Intelligence can also handle background tasks like placing DoorDash coffee orders while your phone stays tucked away in your pocket. The wearable additionally works with apps like Uber and Mondly through voice commands while supporting both Android devices and iPhones.
