No Smartphone Needed: AI Glasses Handle Translation and Navigation with Ease

Samsung Electronics and Google have unveiled AI glasses that can provide navigation, translation and photography functions using only voice commands, without the need to take out a smartphone. Samsung plans to accelerate efforts to strengthen its mobile AI ecosystem through next-generation wearable devices that support the functions of Samsung Galaxy AI phones.
On the 19th local time, Samsung Electronics and Google introduced two AI glasses based on Android XR at Google I/O 2026, held at Googleplex in Mountain View, California. It was the first time the companies revealed the actual design after announcing in December last year that they were collaborating with global eyewear brands Gentle Monster and Warby Parker on AI glasses.
The device looks like stylish horn-rimmed glasses, but speakers, cameras, microphones and batteries are built into the frame and temples. Once worn, it can understand the user's situation in real time and offer a range of convenient functions through voice alone, without waking a smartphone. Working with Google, Samsung embedded Gemini integration into the glasses. While wearing the AI glasses, users can call up Gemini by voice and get directions to a destination. They can also ask for nearby cafe recommendations or place drink orders by voice.
The AI glasses also provide real-time voice translation that reflects the other person's tone of voice, and they can translate text the user is looking at, such as menus or signs, and read it aloud. They can also summarize messages received on a smartphone and add events to a calendar using only voice, without any separate operation. The wearer can also capture the scene in front of them exactly as they see it.
Kim Jung-hyun, vice president of Samsung Electronics MX Business Division, said, "These AI glasses are an important milestone in expanding Samsung's AI vision." He added, "Based on Samsung's mobile leadership and collaboration with partners, we will focus on expanding the Galaxy Ecosystem experience and delivering more meaningful user experiences."
Shahram Izadi, vice president in charge of Google Android XR, said, "By combining Samsung's hardware leadership with the premium design of eyewear partners, we will provide a free and hands-free AI experience." The new AI glasses are scheduled to launch in the second half of this year, and detailed specifications will be released later.
kaya@fnnews.com Choi Hye-rim Reporter