Google has been making waves in the tech industry with its Android XR smart glasses prototypes, but does it live up to the hype? The company recently showcased its offerings at a private event, and we got to try them out for ourselves. While nothing can replace hands-on experience, our demos were limited due to safety concerns and cameras being present.
Project Moohan, an Android-flavored Apple Vision Pro, was one of the first prototypes we saw. It’s still relatively light and comfortable to wear, with a dial in the back that allows for adjustable fit. The AI assistant Gemini is integrated into the headset, allowing users to ask questions and receive responses. A notable feature is spatialized video, which enables 3D depth in regular videos without special equipment.
We also got to try out Google’s prototype Android XR glasses. Although simple, they have a discreet display showing the time and weather. Pressing the temple brings up Gemini, allowing users to ask questions and receive answers. The glasses were able to identify paintings and suggest conclusions, although it took some prompting.
While these demos seemed promising, we couldn’t help but feel that something was missing. The limitations of our experience, combined with the presence of cameras, made it difficult to fully appreciate the potential of Android XR smart glasses. Nevertheless, Google’s efforts in this area are notable, particularly when compared to its competitor Meta.
The addition of a display screen to the glasses is an exciting feature, allowing users to frame their images and improve their photography experience. However, more convincing demos were shown behind closed doors in December, which hinted at a more substantial product in development. As Google continues to refine its Android XR smart glasses, it’s essential to provide hands-on experiences that showcase their capabilities.
Google’s approach to AI-powered headsets is also worth noting, with the company positioning AI as the killer app for these devices. This strategy is reminiscent of Meta’s efforts, but Google’s partnership with eyewear brands like Gentle Monster and Warby Parker may give it an edge in the market.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/hands-on/671077/project-moohan-android-xr-google-io-2025-smart-glasses-wearables