Google has confirmed plans to re-enter the smart glasses market, aiming for a new device release in 2026. The move comes more than a decade after the company’s first attempt with Google Glass failed to gain widespread consumer acceptance.
The tech giant said the next-generation smart glasses will be developed in partnership with eyewear brands and powered by advances in artificial intelligence. Google believes AI will play a central role in making the devices more useful and socially acceptable than earlier versions.
Google Glass, launched in 2013, was discontinued for consumers after criticism over privacy concerns, high pricing, and limited real-world use. While the product found niche applications in enterprise and healthcare settings, it never reached mainstream adoption.
Since then, interest in wearable technology has surged, with rivals such as Meta, Apple, and Snap investing heavily in augmented reality and AI-driven wearables. Google appears to be positioning its new glasses to compete in a market that is now more technologically and culturally prepared.
The company has not revealed pricing or full technical specifications but said the glasses will focus on seamless integration into daily life rather than experimental features. More details are expected closer to the planned launch date.