Home / Technology / Smart Glasses Race Heats Up in 2026
Smart Glasses Race Heats Up in 2026
29 Jan
Summary
- Samsung confirmed AR glasses release this year, joining Meta and Google.
- Apple may launch its own smart glasses by 2027, potentially earlier.
- Smart glasses are becoming a legal battleground over patent infringements.
Consumer smart glasses are poised for a major breakthrough in 2026, with major technology companies accelerating their plans. Samsung has officially confirmed the release of its augmented reality glasses this year, potentially challenging Meta's current dominance in the market.
Google, collaborating with Samsung on Android XR software, is also reportedly developing its own audio-focused smart glasses, reminiscent of earlier designs. This strategic move places Google alongside Samsung and Meta as key players in the burgeoning XR hardware space.
Further intensifying the competition, Apple is rumored to be fast-tracking its own smart glasses initiative, with a potential 2027 launch or even an earlier reveal this year. The company has reportedly shelved less advanced projects to prioritize its smart glasses.
Beyond the star-studded lineup, numerous smaller companies like Xreal and Xgimi are also slated for releases in the first half of 2026. This crowded field is also becoming a legal battleground, with companies like Solos and Xreal filing patent infringement lawsuits against competitors, signaling the high stakes involved.
