Warby Parker and Google Collaborate on AI-Powered Smart Glasses
Warby Parker is partnering with Google to create smart glasses built on the Android XR platform. This collaboration combines Warby Parker’s expertise in eyewear design with Google's advancements in artificial intelligence, aiming to develop glasses suitable for all-day wear.
The companies plan to release a series of AI-enabled smart glasses starting after 2025. These glasses will feature multimodal AI technology and support both prescription and non-prescription lenses, blending functionality with style.
Dave Gilboa, co-founder and co-CEO of Warby Parker, highlighted the company’s focus on integrating pioneering technology to improve products and customer experiences. He noted that multimodal AI is well-suited for glasses, offering real-time context and intelligence to enhance the wearer’s interaction with their environment.
Technology Behind the Glasses
The upcoming Warby Parker-Google glasses will operate on Google’s Android XR platform, a system Google has been refining for over a decade. Equipped with a camera, microphones, and speakers, these glasses will sync with a user’s smartphone to provide app access and notifications.
An optional in-lens display will discreetly deliver information directly to the user. When paired with Google’s Gemini generative AI chatbot, the glasses will interpret visual and audio context, remember key details, and assist users throughout their day.
Shahram Izadi, GM and VP of XR at Google, emphasized Warby Parker’s blend of optical expertise and technology-driven approach, making them an ideal partner for launching this new generation of smart eyewear.
Investment and Market Context
Google has committed up to $75 million to support Warby Parker’s product development and commercialization efforts. Additionally, Google may invest another $75 million in Warby Parker, depending on the achievement of certain milestones.
Besides Warby Parker, Google is collaborating with Samsung and Gentle Monster on Android XR smart glasses, with plans to expand partnerships to other brands like Kering Eyewear.
These Android XR glasses will compete with devices like Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest. However, they aim to offer a more lightweight, glasses-like experience, avoiding the bulkiness of VR headsets.
This initiative follows the discontinuation of Google Glass, with consumer support ending in 2016 and full discontinuation in 2022. Android XR represents Google's renewed effort to succeed in smart eyewear.
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