First Android XR Smart Glasses From Warby Parker Gentle Monster Are Launching in December

Google and Samsung announced today that the first Android XR glasses designed in collaboration with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster are now available for pre-order, and they will start shipping in select markets on December 10. In the US, the Warby Parker models will start at $395, while the Gentle Monster versions will range from $449 to $489, depending on the configuration.

This first lineup of “Intelligent Eyewear” is powered by Google’s new Android XR platform and its Gemini chatbot. They let users respond to messages, take phone calls, and get hands-free assistance with a 12MP camera allowing Gemini to analyze its surroundings. Google also developed a Guided Vision feature to provide intelligent assistance to visually impaired people.

Through the glasses’ open-ear speaker, Google’s Gemini chatbot can provide turn-by-turn directions as well as real-time speech translation with automatic language detection across more than 70 languages. Users can also listen to music from various streaming services, as well as audiobooks from Audible.

Google emphasized today how it developed these first Android XR glasses with a privacy-first approach. All data stored on the glasses is encrypted, and users are in control of which apps can access the glasses’ camera and microphone. All models also come with built-in LED indicating when the camera is being used, and the glasses will stop recording if the light is covered or disabled.

Lastly, Google isn’t saving videos recorded by Gemini, and the company won’t use this data to train its AI models. “Your glasses are also designed to automatically redact bystanders’ faces from these visuals before Gemini processes them,” Google said today.

Overall, Google and its hardware partners created 30 unique designs with lightweight frames (around 41 grams) and a battery that can last up to 9 hours. All models will come with a case that can recharge the glasses up to seven times.

Gentle Monster models will only be available in the US and South Korea at launch, with a $449 starting price in the US. They’re available in six designs and various colors, with tinted, clear, blue, or brown lenses, and prescription options for most frames.

The Warby Parker Collection is more affordable, with a $395 starting price, and customers can choose between three styles with optical or sun lens options. Pre-orders are live online and in-store at Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, with hands-on demos also available at select retail locations.