As the conversation heats up about what could replace smartphones, Samsung seems to be stepping up. The company is gearing up to launch its first pair of smart glasses, which will compete with Meta’s AI glasses and potentially outshine Apple’s future offerings. According to SamMobile, these glasses could hit the market by late 2026.
What’s interesting is that these initial glasses won’t have an augmented reality (AR) display. Instead, they’ll function similarly to Meta’s AI glasses. Users will be able to take photos, record videos, ask questions, and listen to responses, all while staying connected to their Galaxy smartphones. This setup emphasizes hands-free convenience rather than immersive experiences like the Meta Quest or Apple Vision Pro.
This focus on simplicity might give Samsung a solid advantage. Smart glasses without screens are usually lighter, less expensive to produce, and easier to wear daily. It’s a practical launch point that could attract a broader audience.
Looking ahead, a bigger leap is anticipated in 2027. Samsung is reportedly working on a second-generation model that will include AR capabilities. Imagine being able to see navigation prompts, notifications, and even video calls projected directly in front of your eyes. If this comes to fruition, Samsung could create a serious competitor to Apple Glass, which is expected next year but may lack advanced AR features.
Samsung’s collaboration with Google to integrate the Gemini AI platform is exciting. However, there are murmurs that Samsung is also developing its own software, aiming for control over the entire user experience. This could set them apart in a crowded market.
The race is fierce. Meta has already launched Ray-Ban Meta AI Glasses, which allow for voice-operated photography and real-time AI feedback but lack a visual display. Meanwhile, Apple’s own smart glasses are anticipated in 2026. However, insiders suggest that Apple’s first model might not pack the same punch as Samsung’s offerings, focusing on basic functions.
Places like Meta continue to tie their hardware closely to social media platforms. Their AI glasses sync with Facebook and Instagram, yet Meta still has to prove it can deliver quality hardware that matches Samsung’s or Apple’s reputation.
Consider this in the context of our rapidly changing tech landscape. Mark Zuckerberg has hinted at a future without traditional smartphones, suggesting a shift towards wearable devices. Samsung’s timeline for their smart glasses suggests they are betting on this vision—aiming for a future where technology seamlessly integrates into our daily lives, possibly shifting from our pockets to our faces.
However, challenges like privacy concerns, battery life issues, and overall costs linger. Despite these hurdles, Samsung’s plan is ambitious: AI glasses in 2026, AR glasses in 2027. This strategy signals a bold leap into a future where mobile technology is not just in our hands but part of how we see the world.
No matter how this unfolds, it’s clear that the coming years could transform our relationship with technology, making everyday tasks simpler and more intuitive.