Prime Highlights
- Samsung Electronics is developing its first smart glasses with a built-in camera that connect to smartphones, marking its entry into the wearable smart-glasses market.
- The device will use AI to track where users look, process the data through a connected phone, and return useful information to the wearer.
Key Facts
- Details were revealed by Jay Kim at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
- Samsung has been working with Qualcomm and Google since 2023 on mixed-reality hardware and software, including devices based on Android XR.
Background
Samsung is developing its first smart glasses with a built-in camera and smartphone connectivity, signaling the company’s entry into the growing wearable technology market.
Jay Kim, executive vice president of Samsung’s mobile business, revealed early details about the product while speaking to CNBC on the sidelines of the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. He said the glasses will feature a camera positioned at eye level. The device will connect to a smartphone, which will process the data captured by the camera and deliver information back to the user.
Kim explained that artificial intelligence will play a major role in how the device works. The system will track where a user is looking, send the information to the smartphone for processing, and return relevant details through connected services.
The move comes as technology companies race to develop new AI-powered devices. Smart glasses are seen as a possible successor to some smartphone functions because they are smaller and already part of everyday wear.
Currently, Meta Platforms leads the smart glasses market with its Ray-Ban collaboration, which holds an estimated 82% global share, according to Counterpoint Research. Several firms, including companies from China and the United States, are now trying to compete in the segment.
Samsung has partnered with Qualcomm and Google since 2023 to develop hardware, chips, and software for mixed-reality products. Their earlier collaboration produced the Samsung Galaxy XR headset based on Google’s Android XR operating system.
Kim did not confirm whether the smart glasses will include a built-in display. However, he said Samsung could rely on other devices like smartphones or smartwatches when a screen is needed.
According to Cristiano Amon, CEO of Qualcomm, the smart glasses are expected to launch later this year as companies continue to explore new AI-driven experiences beyond traditional devices.
