Samsung, known for its innovative wearables, might be expanding its product line to include augmented reality (AR) glasses. With the anticipation building around its forthcoming Galaxy Unpacked event scheduled for January, the tech giant is expected to introduce not only the Galaxy S25 but potentially a new pair of AR glasses aimed at competing with Meta’s eyewear offerings.
Recent reports from Yonhap News, citing unnamed IT sources, indicate that these AR glasses will feature capabilities such as payment functions, gesture recognition, and facial recognition. However, unlike the privacy concerns surrounding Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses, which have faced criticism for invasive camera usage, Samsung’s offering appears designed with user privacy in mind. Regardless, the introduction of connectivity through cameras raises ongoing questions about surveillance and privacy that consumers are increasingly wary of.
Collaboration seems to be key in the development of these glasses. Yonhap’s reporting suggests that Samsung is partnering with tech giants Google and Qualcomm. This collaboration could lead to the integration of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors and Google’s Gemini model, enhancing the glasses’ performance and functionality. The integration of AI capabilities might mirror those seen with Google’s Pixel Buds Pro 2, allowing the glasses to respond to voice commands seamlessly.
However, it is important to note that the glasses might only be in a prototype phase similar to Meta’s recently revealed Orion true AR glasses. If Samsung does unveil them at the Unpacked event, consumers may have to wait until 2025 or later to get their hands on the product. In addition to AR glasses, the company has hinted at working on mixed-reality headsets, though details on whether all these devices will run on the same software ecosystem remain unclear.
Samsung’s Unpacked event is anticipated to take place in late January. While the Galaxy S25 lineup is expected to take center stage, the introduction of AR glasses would add a new dimension to the showcase, aiming to generate excitement among tech enthusiasts. Last January, a teaser for the Galaxy Ring was unveiled but did not follow through to release until July.
As the tech landscape evolves, wearables are continuing to attract consumer interest. While virtually every major tech player pronounced the “metaverse” as the next frontier, it was a modest $300 pair of Ray-Ban glasses featuring built-in cameras that stood out. Following a recent refresh, Meta has focused on enhancing AI voice capabilities within its eyewear, showcasing a growing focus on integrating smart technology into daily life.
Samsung appears to be capitalizing on this trend, particularly after the successful launch of the Galaxy Watch Ultra and Galaxy Ring this year, which are optimized for users of Samsung devices. This strategy may position Samsung ahead of Apple, which is reportedly also developing its own smart glasses. While Apple’s designs are rumored to lean more towards the lifestyle aesthetic, featuring styles similar to Ray-Ban, Samsung seems determined to delve into the competitive AR space with unique offerings.
As excitement builds around potential new technologies, questions about other Samsung projects linger too. Many fans are curious about the whereabouts of Ballie, the tiny home robot previously showcased by the company, who may make a surprise appearance at CES this year.
As the tech industry continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with wearables and smart devices, the upcoming Unpacked event may set the stage for a fierce competition in the AR realm, with all eyes on how Samsung plans to integrate its innovations into everyday life.