At the Google I/O conference, Google, together with Samsung, demonstrated a prototype of smart glasses with augmented reality (XR) based on Android. The device, resembling regular glasses with a thick temple, hides technology for displaying information without blocking the field of view.
A screen is built into the lenses, which shows data in the form of a small window. In standby mode, the time and weather are displayed, and during the demonstration, Google showed an improved interface for taking photos: photos are enlarged directly on the screen, which is more convenient than similar products like Meta* Ray-Ban. The functions of calls, messages and text translation in real time are also announced, but their details are not disclosed.
The main advantage was navigation tips. The route is displayed at the top of the screen, showing the distance to the turn and the street name. If necessary, the map moves synchronously with head movement. The image quality indoors was rated as high, but tests in bright sunlight have not yet been conducted.
The glasses work on the Android XR platform with an integrated Gemini assistant. It announces the weather forecast, analyzes images (for example, identifies reproductions of paintings), searches for information about books and stores. Voice responses and a compact screen make interaction intuitive.
By the end of the year, Google will open access to the platform for developers. At the same time, Samsung announced Project Moohan, an AR helmet on Android XR, which will help attract third-party app creators. Warby Parker, X-Real, and Gentle Monster are also expected to join the market with their smart glasses.
Despite the modest design of the prototype, the Gemini integration and user-friendly interface put the product among promising developments. They will compete with Meta and Apple projects, which are preparing their own augmented reality devices.
