Samsung Electronics and Google are expanding the arena of the generative AI competition beyond smartphones by unveiling glasses-type wearable devices equipped with AI capabilities. The core of this approach is the ability to check information and interact with the surrounding environment using only voice, without having to look directly at the smartphone screen.

Samsung Electronics and Google unveiled two Android XR-based AI glasses at Google I/O 2026, held at Google’s headquarters in Mountain View, California, on the 19th (local time). This marks the first time actual product designs have been revealed since the two companies announced plans to collaborate with global eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker last year.

The unveiled product features built-in speakers, a camera, and a microphone instead of a display. Users can invoke Google's AI model "Gemini," connected to a smartphone, to perform voice-based tasks such as navigation, recommendations for nearby places, message summaries, and scheduling events. It also supports real-time voice translation and in-the-field text translation. It also includes a photo-taking function using the camera.

The industry interprets this product as an AI device that assists smartphones. Recently, big tech companies have been expanding generative AI services to mobile operating systems and wearable devices. With Meta having secured a leading position in the smart glasses market, it is understood that Samsung and Google are vying for dominance in the AI ecosystem based on the Android XR platform.

In terms of design, the collaboration strategy with fashion brands was emphasized. The Gentle Monster model featured a relatively experimental appearance, while the Warby Parker model adopted a classic design focused on everyday wear. This can be interpreted as an approach aimed at reducing the unfamiliarity inherent in technological devices and realizing product forms suitable for constant wear.

Samsung Electronics has defined its AI glasses as a "companion device" integrated with the Galaxy AI ecosystem. The focus is on enabling users to check information or perform tasks without taking out their smartphones. The product is scheduled to be released in the second half of this year, and detailed specifications will be disclosed later.