Google Begins Preorders for AI Glasses with Focus on Privacy Features
Google has begun accepting preorders for its AI glasses, focusing on privacy features to compete with Meta's products.
NEW DELHI, Nov 13: Google has opened preorders for its new AI glasses, powered by Gemini, starting November 12, with sales commencing on December 10 in the U.S. and South Korea. Developed alongside Samsung, the glasses aim to rival Meta’s offerings by emphasizing privacy.
The Intelligent Eyewear comes in two collections from Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, priced at $395 and $449, respectively. They are lightweight, weighing around 41 grams, with a battery life of up to nine hours, rechargeable up to seven times with the provided case.
Users activate the glasses by saying “Hey Gemini” or tapping the frames to receive assistance. Features include a 12-megapixel camera and open-ear speakers for capturing images, listening to music, and receiving turn-by-turn directions from Google Maps. The glasses also support real-time translations in over 70 languages.
Google has included several privacy measures, such as redacting bystanders’ faces from images before processing and ensuring that these visuals do not appear in Gemini History or contribute to AI model training. An indicator light shows when recording is in progress; if the light is blocked, recording stops.
Shahram Izadi, Google’s VP and GM of XR, said, “As glasses become more capable, our focus is on creating helpful experiences that make both wearers and bystanders feel protected.” This reflects Google’s awareness of privacy concerns affecting competitors like Meta.
While Meta leads the smart glasses market, capturing a significant share of global shipments, Google’s privacy measures could attract users seeking safer options. The glasses will be available for demo at over 360 Warby Parker stores, allowing customers to experience them firsthand before purchase.