Tech companies have been chasing the dream of functional, stylish augmented reality (AR) glasses for years — and it’s proven to be a major challenge. Creating lightweight, immersive, and non-intrusive AR eyewear that actually works in everyday life has stumped even the biggest players in the industry.
Google has been in this race longer than most. Remember Google Glass? The company launched it back in 2014, but it flopped and was discontinued within a year. Now, over a decade later, Google is back with a new prototype — and this time, they might have cracked the code.
At TED2025, Shahram Izadi, Vice President of Android XR at Google, revealed the company’s latest AR glasses concept. Unlike past attempts, this version integrates seamlessly with Google’s Gemini AI assistant — the same powerful tool found in Pixel devices and other AI-forward products.
AI Integration Is the Game Changer
One of the biggest breakthroughs in this new iteration is the way the glasses connect with your smartphone. Similar to how wireless earbuds or smartwatches pair with your device, these AR glasses stream data back and forth with your phone, making them incredibly lightweight and efficient.
“These glasses work with your phone, streaming back and forth, allowing the glasses to be very lightweight and access all of your phone apps,” Izadi explained during his TED talk. He even wore the prototype during his presentation, with his speaking notes displayed in real-time through the glasses’ built-in screen.
Key Features of Google’s New AR Glasses
- Integrated with Gemini AI assistant
- Lightweight design powered by phone connectivity
- Built-in display for real-time information
- Microphone, speakers, and camera included
- Likely to feature smart sensors for immersive interaction
These features could finally make AR glasses a practical, everyday accessory — something tech companies have been promising for over a decade.
A Glimpse at Google’s Mixed Reality Future
Izadi didn’t stop at glasses. He also teased a powerful mixed reality (MR) headset designed to rival the Apple Vision Pro. While details were scarce, the move signals Google’s serious investment in extended reality (XR) technology.
When Will Google’s AR Glasses Be Available?
There’s no official release date yet. These AR glasses are still in the prototype phase, and it may be some time before they’re ready for consumers. But with AI advancing rapidly and user-friendly design finally in focus, mass adoption of smart glasses could be just around the corner.
