Android XR smartglasses show the value of a display-free design

Google’s planned Android XR smartglasses, made with Samsung, Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, take a display-free approach to wearable technology. After trying them, the writer says hands-free access to AI, messages, directions and music made the lack of a screen seem less limiting, though they still want models with built-in displays.

Warby Parker frames are priced at $395 and Gentle Monster’s at $449, with the same core specifications: 2GB of RAM, 64GB of storage, a 12MP camera capable of recording up to 3K video, speakers, microphones and touch controls. Google supplies the software, Samsung the electronics, and the eyewear brands the frames and lenses. The glasses are expected to offer around nine hours of battery life, work with Android phones and iPhones, and require no paid Gemini plan; models with screens are not included.