Google and Samsung Introduce Smart Glasses Starting at AZN 670

Google and Samsung have unveiled Intelligent Eyewear smart glasses powered by Gemini artificial intelligence and have begun accepting preorders. Warby Parker models start at $395 (about AZN 670), while Gentle Monster models start at $449 (about AZN 760). The glasses will go on sale on December 10. Initially, they will be available only in the US and South Korea.

The collection includes the Samsung Intelligent Eyewear x Warby Parker and Samsung Intelligent Eyewear x Gentle Monster series. They are available in 30 different designs. Warby Parker will sell the Wren, Reid and Alden frames in 3 colors. Each model will be available with prescription or sunglass lenses. The Gentle Monster series includes 6 frames and lenses in various colors. The glasses will be sold at select Samsung stores and through the partners’ online sales channels.

All models run on the Android XR platform and are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 Gen 1 processor. The glasses have a 12 MP camera, microphones and open-ear speakers. Using the camera, Gemini can see the user’s surroundings, provide directions, translate conversations instantly and create notes. The glasses can connect to Android and iOS devices. The battery lasts up to 9 hours on a single charge, and the case also charges the glasses.

Google has added a separate button that completely cuts off power to protect privacy. A warning light turns on when a photo or video is being taken. If the user covers or interferes with this light, the camera will not work. Videos are limited to 90 seconds. The company says algorithms constantly check whether the light is working, but it also acknowledges that the system is not flawless.

When the user asks Gemini to look at an object in front of them, those images will not be saved in their history. Google has said it will not use this data to train artificial intelligence or select ads. Data is encrypted both on the device and while being transmitted. A confidential artificial intelligence processing system called Private AI Compute will also be launched in the future. Faces in the background will be obscured before the data is processed, while the microphones will filter out nearby conversations.

Other apps will be able to access the camera only with the user’s permission. This permission can be revoked at any time. Google Play Store will prohibit apps that recognize faces in real time, livestream to social platforms or alter how the warning light works. Setting up the glasses requires the Google account of someone over the age of 18. Some features of the glasses may be disabled for users who record without permission or violate rules in sensitive locations.

Google will also prohibit the sale and advertising of accessories that conceal the warning light. Existing YouTube restrictions concerning stalking and nonconsensual sexual content will remain in effect. Although privacy experts consider these measures useful, they emphasize that glasses with cameras collect sensitive information. In their view, it will still be difficult for people nearby to see that recording is taking place and consent to it.