AI wearables

Google announced its largest investment in Germany and a 2026 launch of AI‑powered smart glasses developed with Samsung, Gentle Monster and Warby Parker, the latter securing a $150 million partnership. The first model is audio‑only, enabling conversation with Gemini AI; a second adds an in‑lens micro‑display for navigation, translation and contextual data, both running Android XR. The move follows Sergey Brin’s admission of past Glass failures and aims to capture a share of the projected $30 billion AI‑wearables market, competing with Meta, Snap and Alibaba. Pricing and seamless Gemini integration will be critical for adoption.

Meta is acquiring AI‑wearable startup Limitless, known for a pendant that records conversations and creates summaries. The deal, announced by Limitless CEO Dan Siroker, adds speech‑to‑text and on‑device summarization to Meta’s expanding hardware line, which already includes Ray‑Ban smart glasses. By integrating privacy‑focused AI processing, Meta aims to broaden wearables beyond glasses and headsets, reduce smartphone dependence, and open new revenue from subscription AI services and enterprise licensing. The acquisition positions Meta to compete in the growing AI‑enabled wearable market alongside rivals like Amazon and Google.