Google’s re-entering the smart eyewear scene with serious fashion backup. Nearly a decade after Google Glass flopped, they’re investing $150 million in partnerships with Warby Parker, Kering Eyewear, and Gentle Monster. The Android XR-powered specs will process audio, video, and text in real time—all while actually looking stylish (shocking, right?). Don’t expect these fashion-forward AI glasses until after 2025, giving competitors plenty of time to sweat the details.
Nearly a decade after the infamous Google Glass flop sent tech-wearing hipsters into hiding, Google is taking another ambitious swing at smart eyewear. The tech giant announced partnerships with Warby Parker, Kering Eyewear, and South Korea’s Gentle Monster at Google I/O 2025, signaling a serious attempt to marry fashion with AI functionality.
Google’s second chance at face computing proves they haven’t forgotten how to dream—or spend big.
Remember when wearing tech on your face made you a “glasshole”? Google clearly hopes you don’t.
The financial commitment speaks volumes about Google’s determination to get it right this time. They’re pouring up to $150 million into Warby Parker alone—half for development and half as equity dependent on hitting performance targets. Not exactly pocket change, even for Google.
These new specs will run on Google’s Android XR platform, processing audio, video, and text in real time. The AI-enhanced glasses will offer hands-free help by enabling the assistant to see through the user’s perspective. The collaboration aims to integrate multimodal AI into everyday wearable technology, transforming how users interact with their surroundings. Unlike their clunky predecessors, they’ll accommodate prescription lenses and prioritize all-day wearability. Because nothing says “cutting-edge tech” like glasses you actually want to keep on your face.
Each partner brings distinct strengths to the alliance. Warby Parker contributes its direct-to-consumer expertise and design chops. Kering adds luxury credibility through its high-end portfolio. Gentle Monster injects avant-garde Korean aesthetics.
Together, they’re creating a product that aims to be as stylish as it is smart. This aligns with the growing trend where AI integration is becoming essential for businesses seeking competitive advantage in the marketplace.
The first models won’t hit shelves until after 2025, giving competitors plenty of time to scramble. This partnership seems deliberately constructed to address the original Glass’s fatal flaws: awkward design, privacy concerns, and limited practical value.
By positioning these devices as fashion accessories with AI superpowers, Google hopes to avoid the tech-novelty trap that doomed earlier attempts. The strategy suggests they’ve learned that even the cleverest technology can’t succeed if nobody wants to be seen wearing it.
Will consumers embrace AI eyewear this time around? Google’s betting $150+ million that with the right fashion partners, they just might.
