Google has revealed plans to launch smart glasses integrated with the Astra project, a multifunctional assistant based on artificial intelligence. The device promises to become an indispensable assistant in everyday life, providing information and performing tasks using voice commands and augmented reality.
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The project was first presented at the Google I/O conference this spring, but Astra still exists in the form of early prototypes and mainly reflects the company’s vision for virtual assistants. It’s interesting that glasses are constantly featured in the project’s demo. This is not surprising, since Google has been experimenting with similar devices for many years, from Google Glass to the Project Iris translator glasses introduced two years ago. Earlier this year, company spokeswoman Jane Park described them as a “functional research prototype.” However, according to The Verge, the project is already at a more advanced stage.
During a press briefing to mark the launch of Gemini 2.0, Google DeepMind team product manager Bibo Xu said that a small group of users will begin testing a prototype of the glasses. She emphasized: “Glasses are one of the most powerful and intuitive platforms for interacting with the Astra AI assistant.” Testing will take place as part of the Trusted Tester program, whose participants will have access to early prototypes. Some testers will use Astra on Android smartphones, while others will use glasses.
When reporters asked about future plans for smart glasses, Xu noted, “There will be more news about the product itself soon.” While this is not a direct confirmation that the device will hit the market, it is clear that Google is considering its release. The glasses are ideal for implementing Astra’s ideas, as they allow you to combine audio, video and display, providing convenient interaction with the assistant in an “always on” format.
Despite the fact that the gadget, including similar developments from Meta✴, remains more of a concept, Google is demonstrating clear intentions to bring this idea to life. A recent video from Astra and Gemini 2.0 shows the user remembering access codes, checking the weather, and even finding out if a passing bus is suitable for the desired destination. While all of these tasks can be accomplished with a smartphone, as The Verge notes, it will be much more natural in a wearable format. When exactly the device will hit the market is still unknown.