Google Introduces Gemini-Powered Android XR Platform and Smart Glasses at I/O 2025
At this year’s Google I/O developer conference, the tech giant unveiled many cutting-edge innovations, with a significant focus on its growing Gemini AI ecosystem. Central to these announcements was the evolution of Google’s Android XR programme, a multi-faceted initiative aimed at merging extended reality (XR) hardware with advanced AI capabilities.
A highlight of the showcase was Google’s ongoing collaboration with XR hardware manufacturers through the Android XR initiative, a platform set to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence and immersive technologies. The company outlined its commitment to supporting a wide spectrum of devices, from fully immersive headsets to lightweight augmented reality (AR) glasses, to accommodate diverse user needs across different contexts—be it entertainment, productivity, or real-time information access.
This approach was detailed by Google’s Android XR lead, Shahram Izadi, who described the strategy as a departure from a one-size-fits-all solution. According to Izadi, the aim is to integrate XR and AI into people’s daily lives through versatile devices that fit seamlessly into various activities.
Google confirmed that it is working closely with key industry partners, including Samsung and Qualcomm, to create a new wave of hardware powered by Gemini AI. Among the anticipated devices is Samsung’s upcoming Moohan headset, which is expected to be the first commercial product built specifically for Android XR. According to the company, this headset is slated for release later this year, coinciding with the XR industry’s peak release season.
Further emphasising the fusion of XR and AI, Google spotlighted its development of AR smart glasses as an extension of the Android XR platform. Positioned as an ideal form factor for on-the-go AI-driven interactions, these glasses are already in prototype testing with trusted users. The company revealed that it plans to open development access for these glasses later in the year, allowing third-party developers to begin creating bespoke applications for the wearable devices.
A demonstration held during TED2025 showcased early capabilities of the AR smart glasses, including real-time translation, image recognition, and fluid integration with existing Android ecosystems. The live presentation underscored how Google’s new operating system for smart glasses reimagines the user interface, moving computing away from traditional screens and into the user’s physical environment.
Originally introduced last year, the Android XR operating system has been designed to unify the XR experience under a familiar Android infrastructure. The system supports legacy mobile and tablet apps, while also enabling developers to build immersive content tailored to XR hardware. The integration of Gemini AI into Android XR aims to create intuitive, personalised user experiences across headsets and glasses. With voice-activated assistants, visual overlays, and responsive interfaces, Google intends for Android XR to make XR adoption more practical and engaging for everyday users.
At present, Android XR is available in a developer preview, allowing creators to build and test applications using established tools such as ARCore, Android Studio, Jetpack Compose, Unity, and OpenXR.
In a move that further demonstrates its investment in immersive technologies, Google has finalised a $250 million strategic partnership with HTC VIVE. This agreement will see selected HTC VIVE team members join Google to accelerate its internal XR projects. In return, Google gains access to HTC’s deep expertise and resources in the XR domain.
Prototypes of Android XR smart glasses are currently undergoing private testing, with Google reportedly prioritising user privacy and versatile use cases. The tech ecosystem surrounding Android XR also includes notable contributions from Samsung, Magic Leap, Lynx, Sony, Qualcomm, and XREAL—all of whom are playing a role in advancing XR innovation through Google’s open platform.
As extended reality continues to reshape the boundaries of digital interaction, Google’s Android XR programme, enhanced by Gemini AI, sets the stage for a future where immersive, context-aware computing becomes the norm.
