Sergey Brin reveals failures of Google Glass and future plans for Android XR
- Google co-founder Sergey Brin recognized mistakes made with the Google Glass launch in 2013.
- The new smart glasses will use Android XR and include the Gemini AI assistant to enhance usability.
- Brin's insights indicate a focus on improving design and functionality to better cater to consumer needs.
On May 21, 2025, at the Google I/O annual developer conference, co-founder Sergey Brin acknowledged the missteps made during the launch of Google Glass in 2013. He emphasized having learned from past errors and asserted that the upcoming iteration of smart glasses would be markedly different. The new glasses will leverage the Android XR operating system and integrate the Gemini AI assistant designed to enhance user interaction. Brin indicated that advancements in technology, particularly in generative artificial intelligence, present a viable opportunity to reintroduce smart wearable devices that offer functionalities without causing distractions. Brin pointed out critical elements that led to the earlier failure of Google Glass, notably technological shortcomings that made the device less effective in daily usage. This failure was compounded by privacy concerns stemming from the device's built-in camera, which sparked debates on user privacy. During his remarks, Brin humorously referred to the launch of the original Google Glass and the dramatic promotion that included skydivers, while recognizing the need for a better-polished product this time around. With the landscape of wearable tech evolving rapidly, Google has partnered with Warby Parker and various companies to refine the design and capabilities of their smart glasses. Brin's vision was clearer, stating that the new glasses would appear more like traditional eyewear, potentially alleviating consumer concerns regarding aesthetics and privacy. The aim is to position the updated devices as tools that simplify everyday tasks rather than gadgets that detract from users' attention. As competition in the smart glasses realm intensifies, with Meta and Apple also working on advanced products, Brin's insistence on working from past mistakes underscores Google’s determination to succeed in this market. The ultimate objective is to create a harmonious balance between innovation and user-friendliness, hoping to avoid the pitfalls that characterized the original Google Glass venture.