Google Testing AR Glasses

Updated July 13, 2023

It always bodes well for the adoption of new tech when a major industry player that appeared to have been holding back finally enters the fray. That is now the case for augmented reality as Google begins publicly testing its latest hardware creation: AR glasses.

Google provided the press with this image to show off its mysterious AR glasses prototype. [Image: Google]

After the abject failure of Google Glass to capture a hold on consumers almost a decade ago, many wondered when Google would finally give slimline wearable AR another shot. Although still in the prototyping phase, Google’s latest wearable is already in the hands – or, more accurately, on the heads – of “a few dozen testers.” Just when the device will reach consumers remains to be seen, but it’s already causing a stir. As many will recall, Google Glass’s initial launch wasn’t met with resounding positivity as many saw users (or “Glassholes”) as invading their privacy just by being in the space. This time around, Google is being more cautious.

No Photos, No Videos, No Fun

This new Google AR device will not be able to capture photos or video for its users and instead focus on translating written text, transcription, navigation, and similar functions. Where this leaves those eager for a similar device capable of advancing AR porn and adults-only use remains to be seen. What’s almost certain, however, is that Google entering the AR market with such a slim, light, innocuous wearable means many other designers and manufacturers – some with an enthusiasm for allowing adult use – could soon have a device of their own to offer.

Development is Done

With recent VR/AR news items focusing largely on both Meta’s and Apple’s latest headsets – for Meta, two new devices, Meta Quest Pro and Quest 3, and, in the case of Apple, it’s very first – it may not be all that surprising that Google appears to be dropping out of the race, at least, for now.

The VR/AR venture that had come to be known as Project Iris has reportedly shut down, putting an apparent end to Google’s ambitions in the virtual realm. Google had already stopped selling its Glass Enterprise Edition 2 AR device in March 2023, while the company’s I/O event in May revealed plans to develop a new set of AR software tools.