There have been tons of announcements from Google I/O 2026, and one of the most exciting is the launch of new intelligent eyewear or, as it’s better known, smart glasses.
Using Android XR, developed in collaboration with Samsung and Qualcomm, and with eyewear from Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, there will be two types of glasses: audio glasses that offer spoken help in your ear and display glasses that show you the information you need. Naturally, both leverage the power of Gemini.
The audio glasses, coming later this Fall, are designed in partnership with Samsung and eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker. Simply say “Hey Google” or tap the side of the frame to instantly access Gemini. From there, you can ask questions about the world around you, or ask it to help execute tasks on your behalf.
You can ask about what you’re looking at, find reviews of a restaurant you’re walking by, learn the name of a cloud formation above, or get help on a confusing parking sign. The glasses know where you’re standing and in which direction you’re facing so they’ll give you natural, turn-by-turn directions. Gemini can also add stops to your route or find nearby restaurants based on your preferences.
Additionally, you can manage calls, send texts, and have Gemini summarize missed messages without reaching for your phone. Or ask to listen to music that complements your environment, played back through the private over-ear speakers.
The glasses can also be used to snap high-quality photos and videos with a single command. Also, use Nano Banana to remove background distractions or transform your images. Try, “Hey Google, take a picture and put everyone in funny hats,” for example.
Get real-time translations with audio that matches the tone and pitch of the speaker’s voice, or look at text on menus and signs to hear a translation.
Gemini Intelligence handles multi-step tasks in the background. Gemini can prepare your coffee order on Doordash while your phone stays in your pocket, for example. All do you need to do is confirm the order. You can also access apps like Uber to order a ride, learn a new language with Mondly, and more.
The glasses pair with both Android and iOS phones. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.