Samsung expands Galaxy ecosystem to include smart glasses

Published by Timo Altmeyer on July 2nd, 2017.

Samsung is expanding its Galaxy ecosystem with a new device category. At Galaxy Unpacked 2026, the manufacturer unveiled its smart glasses for the first time. These intelligent glasses are being developed in collaboration with eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker and are based on Google Gemini and the Android XR platform.

Samsung Glasses Hero

Google Gemini directly in the glasses

The focus is on the integration of Google Gemini. Using voice control, users will be able to, among other things, have news summarized, information read aloud, use live translations, or ask questions about their surroundings.

Thanks to an integrated camera, the smart glasses can optionally capture the current viewing angle and use this as context for AI functions. For example, content from a whiteboard or meeting notes can be recognized and then saved in Samsung Notes.

Navigation, location-based information, and the ability to resume previously started tasks are also among the planned functions. During phone calls, the current field of view can also be transmitted live.

Samsung Glasses Warby Parker

Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 as the technical basis

The smart glasses are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1. The platform was specifically designed for compact XR devices and is intended to offer sufficient performance for AI applications while maintaining high energy efficiency.

Samsung promises a battery life of up to nine hours per charge. The included charging case provides enough power for up to seven additional full charges.

The glasses are primarily operated via voice commands. Additionally, they support touch input and gestures via compatible Galaxy devices. Certain functions can also be controlled via the new Galaxy Watch9.

Samsung Glasses Gentle Monster

Two design lines with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker

Visually, Samsung is deliberately opting for classic glasses instead of futuristic AR headsets. The company is collaborating with Gentle Monster and Warby Parker for this.

Samsung showcased two models at launch. The Gentle Monster version features a slim black frame with striking lines, while the Warby Parker version comes in a classic brown tone and is more reminiscent of everyday glasses.

According to the manufacturer, fit, weight and wearing comfort were optimized in collaboration with eyewear manufacturers.

Availability still open

Samsung has not yet announced a price or a specific release date. All that is certain is that the smart glasses will initially only be available in select markets.

Source: Samsung press release

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