Google pushes privacy angle as Gemini-powered smartglasses debut starting at $395

Key Points:

• Google, in collaboration with Samsung, Gentle Monster, and Warby Parker, has launched preorder for its new AI-powered smartglasses featuring Google’s Gemini AI, with prices starting at $395 and availability starting December 10 in the US and South Korea.
• The glasses weigh about 41 grams and offer voice and touch interaction with Gemini AI, including features like AI-powered recommendations based on what the camera sees and audio descriptions for visually impaired users, but lack built-in screens.
• Privacy measures include a 12MP camera with an always-on recording light, physical camera off switch, restrictions on live video streaming, prohibition of real-time facial recognition, and Google’s commitment not to save images or videos in Gemini history or use them for AI training or ads.
• The glasses support iPhones 13 Pro and later, Google Pixel 7 and newer, and Samsung Galaxy S or Z series with One UI 9+, but have limited compatibility with other Android devices at launch.
• Google acknowledges Gemini AI’s current limitations and fallibility, emphasizing that user trust in the AI’s accuracy will be critical to the glasses’ utility and adoption.