Everything we know about Android XR smart glasses

Source: Mashable Tech

Background

Google I/O 2026 is just around the corner, and all eyes are on what Google has in store for the year. One major expectation is announcements involving the company’s planned smart glasses.

Google debuted a concept of its upcoming smart glasses at last year’s I/O. The AI‑powered prototype featured a full augmented‑reality in‑glass interface with built‑in cameras, microphones, and speakers, and Google said it would work with brands like Warby Parker and Gentle Monster to produce a range of styles.

Since that reveal, new details have emerged about the Android XR smart glasses—specifically the glasses form factor.

Models

No‑display model

The first Android XR smart glasses model has been compared to Meta’s Ray‑Ban glasses. It includes a camera, speakers, and a microphone, and can interact with Google’s AI assistant Gemini. This version does not have a visual display.

Model with in‑glasses display

The second model adds an in‑glasses display that can show visual information such as captions for translations, map directions, and other contextual data.

Operating System

Both models run on Android XR, Google’s smart‑glass operating system that debuted with the Samsung Galaxy XR headset.

Launch timeline

Google has confirmed that the no‑display Android XR smart glasses will launch later this year, so a preview is expected at Google I/O 2026.

The release schedule for the model with an in‑glasses display has not been disclosed. Whether more details will be revealed at the upcoming I/O event remains to be seen.