With the Samsung Galaxy XR headset perched on my head, it feels like a blend between Meta’s Quest and Apple’s Vision Pro. It’s bulky and definitely not something for outdoor wear. This new mixed reality device, a collaboration between Samsung and Google, is just the beginning of their ambitious plan.
The next phase? Smart glasses that aim to fit seamlessly into our daily lives.
Inside the Galaxy XR, there’s something groundbreaking happening. The new Gemini AI can observe what I see, not just the real world through its array of cameras but also the virtual displays I’m interacting with. Picture this technology embedded in everyday glasses; that’s the vision Samsung and Google have shared with me.
In talks with executives like Won-Joon Choi from Samsung and Sameer Samat from Google, they hinted at the upcoming smart glasses, but specifics like price and release date remain under wraps.
They are also partnering with Warby Parker and Gentle Monster to develop AI glasses that could compete with Meta’s Ray-Ban partnership. The Galaxy XR serves as a stepping stone toward this future, revealing how AI can connect across devices like glasses, phones, and wearables.
Contextual AI: The Future of Smart Glasses
The concept of contextual AI is gaining traction. Both Google and Meta are working on systems that understand your surroundings and activities better. This kind of AI can recognize apps you’re using and even what you’re looking at. For instance, Meta’s smart glasses can tap into camera and microphone capabilities, while Google’s efforts with Gemini include an awareness of open apps and real-world settings.
Choi notes, “XR devices like headsets and glasses can harness this multimodal AI.” As the technology evolves, everyday smart glasses might become more commonplace than elaborate VR headsets.
The Importance of Connectivity
Smart glasses don’t have a traditional interface, making them feel awkward to use alone. However, other devices can enhance their functionality. For instance, Meta’s Ray-Ban Displays feature a special neural band for gesture control, a promising concept that could extend to future devices.
Samsung and Google’s connection with various wearable tech could help bridge this gap. Choi emphasized that “everything in our ecosystem—smartphones, watches, glasses—will work together.”
This integration includes health and fitness features. Although the Galaxy XR currently lacks seamless tracking with fitness devices, upcoming models are expected to push health functionalities.
The Road Ahead
The $1,799 Galaxy XR is not just a consumer gadget; it’s also designed to attract developers. Samat points out that it’s a platform for creating future AR glasses. The question remains: could other AI models be added to Android XR besides Gemini?
Samat suggests the open nature of Android means variety is likely. Just like there are numerous AI technologies on smartphones, the same evolution is expected in XR environments.
The road ahead for mixed reality is indeed exciting. As companies like Samsung and Google push the boundaries, we’re on the cusp of a new era where smart glasses can genuinely augment our everyday lives. With advancements in AI and connectivity, our interaction with technology could become more intuitive and effective.
For more insights on technological advancements and their implications, feel free to explore CNET.
