Apple and Google eye the future of AI glasses – Computerworld
Apple and Google are both positioning themselves in the race towards the future domination of AI glasses, with the intention of surpassing Meta, the current leader in the market. Meta has gained traction with its non-visual AI glasses, like the Ray-Ban Meta glasses, and is rumored to be working on integrating displays into the lenses of upcoming models.
Apple's AR Glasses
Apple is determined to launch true augmented reality glasses before Meta can establish a stronghold in the market. Apple envisions lightweight, all-day wearable glasses that can overlay digital information onto the real world, potentially replacing the iPhone as its flagship device. However, key technologies necessary for such a product are still in development, delaying its release.
While Apple works on perfecting its AR glasses, the company is also focusing on enhancing its Vision Pro headset. This serves as an interim product to engage users and developers while Apple finalizes its AR glasses.
Google's AI-Powered AR Glasses
Meanwhile, Google has made a significant re-entry into the AR glasses conversation with its new AI-powered AR glasses. These glasses, unlike the infamous Google Glass, appear like regular eyewear with a discrete embedded display. The heavy processing is offloaded to a connected smartphone, making the glasses both functional and fashionable.
Google's approach involves making the glasses a seamless extension of the phone, enabling users to access Android apps and Google services effortlessly. The partnership with Samsung in the development of these glasses is a strategic move to ensure a successful launch in 2026.
The Future of AR Glasses
Despite each company's efforts, technical barriers continue to hinder the progress of AR glasses. Challenges include shrinking high-resolution displays and batteries to a practical size and weight, while maintaining the glasses' power and functionality for extended daily use. As a result, AR glasses are likely to rely on smartphones for the foreseeable future.
While the industry invests in research and development, partnerships, and hardware launches, the road to mainstream AR glasses remains challenging. The goal of seamlessly blending the digital and real worlds through a pair of glasses is promising but still a work in progress.
