Google launches Gemini-powered smartglasses with privacy safeguards, starting at $395

Google, Samsung and eyewear designers Gentle Monster and Warby Parker announced the first Gemini-powered smartglasses, which are now available for preorder. The devices, weighing roughly 41 grams without lenses, come in multiple frame styles and colors. Warby Parker offers three frames—Alden, Reid and Wren—priced from $395, while Gentle Monster provides six styles starting at $449. Both brands will sell the glasses in the United States, and Gentle Monster will also ship to South Korea.

Samsung supplies the computing hardware, and Google provides the Gemini AI software. Users can activate the assistant by saying “Hey Gemini” or tapping a touch-sensitive area on the frame. The glasses include custom open-ear speakers and directional microphones that aim to limit background noise and avoid picking up nearby conversations. A 12 MP wide-angle camera supports photo and video capture, and Google has added several privacy features.

Google says a recording light illuminates whenever the camera is active, and the glasses will refuse to activate the camera if the light is covered. A physical off switch is also included, and the terms of use prohibit recording people without consent or in sensitive locations. Violations could lead to remote disabling of the device.

The company will not allow live-streaming apps on the glasses, and real-time facial recognition is disabled. Captured media is stored locally and not saved to Gemini history, nor is it used for AI training or ad targeting. Voice interactions are not guaranteed the same level of protection, but users can delete chat history.

Data transmitted to the cloud is encrypted in transit, though it is not encrypted on Google’s servers. Google is working on Private AI Compute to isolate processing data.

The glasses are compatible with iPhone models from the 13 Pro onward, and with Pixel 7 or newer, as well as Samsung Galaxy S or Z series devices running One UI 9 or later. Shipping is slated for December 10, with availability in retail stores thereafter.