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Xreal and Google are joining forces on Project Aura, a new pair of smart glasses powered by Android XR. This collaboration marks the second device to utilize the Android XR platform since its launch, following Samsung’s Project Moohan XR headset. Project Aura differentiates itself with an “optical see-through XR” design, akin to Xreal’s existing smart glasses. These innovative glasses discreetly integrate two miniature displays, allowing users to seamlessly view content from their smartphones or laptops with customizable transparency.

Project Aura is slated to feature Gemini integration and a wide field of view, enhancing the user experience. Renderings of the device reveal several hardware features, including cameras embedded in the hinges and nose bridge, as well as microphones and buttons incorporated into the temples. Powering the device will be a Qualcomm chipset specially optimized for XR processing. Both Google and Xreal are strongly encouraging developers to create applications for the Android XR ecosystem, noting the relative ease with which headset apps can be adapted for Project Aura’s form factor.

Google’s approach to the smart glasses market revolves around providing the core platform, allowing third-party manufacturers to handle the hardware development. This mirrors their successful strategy with Wear OS. The partnership underscores Google’s renewed interest in smart glasses and highlights the potential of XR devices for integrating Gemini’s AI capabilities.