Google has unveiled more details about its plans to launch Android XR today, a new operating system designed for virtual and augmented reality devices such as headsets and glasses. These devices will also integrate with the company's flagship AI model, Gemini.
Android XR will initially be released alongside virtual and mixed reality headsets, which create immersive simulated environments where users can interact with digital objects through head-mounted displays and controllers.
However, during today’s I/O developer conference, the company showcased its plans for the first time to bring the operating system to AR glasses. These glasses are equipped with microphones, speakers, and cameras.
"For over a decade, we’ve been exploring the concept of smart glasses," said Shahram Izadi, Google's VP and General Manager of XR. "With Android XR, we're taking a significant leap forward."
In a sneak peek demo at today’s I/O event, the company demonstrated how these glasses could essentially act as an information superpower for the wearer.
The glasses work in tandem with the user’s smartphone, enabling them to access apps without needing to take their phone out of their pocket. They can also pair with Gemini, allowing the AI assistant to perceive and hear everything around the user and understand the context of what’s happening. Users simply speak aloud, and the AI responds accordingly.
Backed by Gemini, users can receive text messages from friends, displayed semi-transparently across their field of view. They can also send messages, make reservations, request step-by-step navigation—including maps or arrows—and take photos. The AI assistant even remembers interactions, effectively functioning as an extra pair of eyes.
The company even showcased real-time translation between two people speaking non-English languages, with subtitles appearing privately within their glasses.
Google announced partnerships with eyewear brands like Gentle Monster and Warby Parker to design stylish Android XR glasses. Future collaborations are also planned with other manufacturers like Kering Eyewear.
Those who require prescription lenses won’t be left out either, as corrective lenses can be fitted into the Android XR glasses.
Chinese AR glasses manufacturer Xreal Technology Ltd. also announced a pair of AR glasses today, named Project Aura, which will run on Google’s Android XR software. The company describes these glasses as lightweight extended reality smart glasses.
By expanding from VR headsets to AR wearables, Google is positioning itself once again to challenge companies that have already ventured into the AR market, such as Meta Platforms Inc. Meta offers an AI-powered smart glasses product developed in collaboration with Ray-Ban and EssilorLuxottica. However, Meta’s glasses lack an in-lens display and rely solely on speakers, cameras, and microphones for contextual awareness and voice responses.
Google stated that developers will gain access to test platforms later this year so they can begin building and testing. The company has already started gathering feedback from a trusted group of testers, which will shape its strategy in the coming months.
