Google partners with Xreal to unveil Project Aura headset

In May 2025, at the Google I/O event, Google showcased its advancements in artificial intelligence alongside the continuation of its Android XR development. The focus of the event was on the significant progress made by Gemini 2.5, which is driving Google's AI innovations, especially in the context of extended reality (XR). While Android updates were largely previewed in a separate event prior to Google I/O, the company emphasized its efforts in Android XR. This included partnerships that aim to create a diverse array of XR devices catering to various user needs. One of the major announcements was the introduction of Project Aura, a collaborative effort with the company Xreal, which is known for its previous success in developing AR headsets. This partnership aims to leverage Xreal's experience to enhance Google's XR ecosystem, facilitating the introduction of innovative devices into the market. The Project Aura headset features a wider 70-degree field of view, indicating a clear intention to improve user experience significantly. However, the pricing details for Project Aura remain undisclosed, suggesting it may be priced higher than Xreal's existing products. Google's strategic initiatives in the XR field also included the introduction of Google Beam, a product developed in collaboration with HP that is anticipated to launch later in 2025. This product, along with Project Aura, will be showcased at upcoming industry events like InfoComm 2025. The direction Google is taking in the XR landscape points to their commitment to merging AI with AR technologies, which could create new opportunities for developers and enhance the overall ecosystem. Their recognized gap in the XR market up until now may have previously stunted growth in that sector. Industry analysts suggest that Google's understanding of AI and XR integration, coupled with its robust capabilities, positions the company to be a leader in this space. The partnerships formed during the I/O event signify a broader vision of not merely creating technology but fostering an environment where XR can flourish through collaborative innovation. Continued execution of these strategies will be vital for Google's success and the overall advancement of the XR marketplace.