What Happened: Okay, so Samsung just got into the mixed reality game this year with its Galaxy XR headset, but it's already planning the next step: smart glasses.
According to the folks at GalaxyClub, it's aiming for a 2026 launch for its first pair. This isn't just a minor project; the model number signals a completely new product line, which means Samsung is committing to wearable AI for the long haul. It's already prepping a version specifically for the U.S. market. The glasses are rumored to include transition lenses - you know, the kind that automatically darken when you walk outside. It'll have a camera, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, but it won't be able to connect to a mobile network on its own. The report also states that Samsung actually has two products coming: a simple AI-driven model in 2026, and a full-blown augmented reality (AR) version in 2027.
Why Is This Important: This 2026 model is really interesting because it's designed to be like Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses - low-profile and focused on AI assistance, not a big screen strapped to your face.
This positions Samsung to go straight after Meta in that fast-growing, discreet smart eyewear market. The features - especially those transition lenses and the built-in camera - suggest it's aiming for a gadget you can wear all day. Given how hard Samsung is pushing Google Gemini AI across all its devices, it's safe to bet these glasses will have deep Gemini integration for hands-free info and calls. It could really be the thing that makes smart glasses a normal accessory.
Why Should I Care: So, why should you care? If you constantly rely on your phone for directions, communication, or just asking AI questions, these glasses could fundamentally change your day.
It's taking those functions - voice AI, instant photos/videos, communication - and putting them right in your line of sight. No screen needed. For commuters, students, or professionals, that's a huge boost in convenience. And since Meta's Ray-Bans start around $379, Samsung's offering is expected to be affordable enough for a lot of people to try out. Recommended Videos
What's Next: Samsung hasn't given an official date or price yet, but the rumors point to the display-less model launching in 2026 and the full AR version in 2027.
Expect a lot more leaks throughout 2025 as prototypes move toward manufacturing. As Samsung strengthens its wearable ecosystem and goes all-in on AI-first hardware, these smart glasses are shaping up to be one of the company's most crucial launches of the decade.