Google opens preorders for Gemini glasses starting at $395

From preview to preorder

Google has officially transitioned its Gemini glasses from a preview phase to the preorder stage. This move signals that the company is preparing for a wide commercial release of its wearable AI hardware. Customers can now secure their pairs ahead of the official retail launch date.

The glasses are scheduled to become available to the general public on December 10, 2026. This timeline allows early adopters to get their hands on the technology before the holiday season concludes. Google is positioning these as a primary way to interact with its Gemini AI model in a hands-free environment.

As reported by AndroidGuys, the preorders are currently being handled through two distinct design partners. Shoppers can choose between different styles and price points depending on which brand they prefer. This partnership strategy suggests Google wants to appeal to different aesthetic tastes in the wearable market.

Hardware and core features

The hardware for these glasses was engineered by Samsung and includes a variety of integrated sensors and capabilities. Users can access hands-free Gemini assistance for tasks like navigation and real-time translation. The device also supports audio playback and includes a 12-megapixel camera for capturing media.

Battery performance is a key specification for the device, with Google rating the glasses for up to nine hours of use. The exact amount of time the battery lasts will vary depending on how frequently a user invokes the AI features. This duration is intended to support a full day of light to moderate interaction.

The glasses are designed to work seamlessly with a variety of smartphones to provide a cohesive experience. However, certain specific features are tied to the mobile operating system. For example, the Audible integration is restricted to Android devices at the time of launch.

Compatibility and accessibility

Not every smartphone will be compatible with the Gemini glasses, so users need to check their devices before purchasing. Supported phones include the Pixel 7 and newer models running the Android 17 September 2026 update or later. For Samsung users, specific Galaxy models on One UI 9.0 or later are required for full functionality.

Apple users can also participate, provided they own an iPhone 13 Pro or a newer model. Setup for the glasses requires a compatible Google Account held by an adult residing in the United States or South Korea. These geographic and hardware requirements are essential for the initial rollout.

Google is also including accessibility features like Guided Vision and Aira for users who need visual descriptions. Guided Vision provides spoken descriptions of the surroundings, while Aira offers a human interpreter service. These specific tools may require a subscription or membership and currently require a compatible Android phone.

Privacy and data handling

Privacy is a significant consideration for wearable devices equipped with cameras and microphones. Google has released a privacy breakdown explaining how the glasses handle visual data used for Gemini assistance. The company states that these visuals are not saved in the Gemini History and are not used for ad targeting or AI training.

The glasses include a specific design to protect the privacy of people in the vicinity. They are designed to redact the faces of bystanders before the images are processed by the Gemini AI. This ensures that the AI can understand the context of a scene without identifying individuals who have not consented to being recorded.

Users still have control over the media they choose to capture intentionally. Photos and videos that a user deliberately takes will be saved to their personal gallery as usual. Additionally, the glasses are built to block any photo or video capture if the recording indicator is physically covered.

The road ahead for AI wearables

While the current launch focuses on the core Gemini experience, Google has plans for further technological integration. The company has mentioned plans for Private AI Compute, which would allow for more localized processing of data. However, Google has not provided a specific date for when this feature will be available to consumers.

The retail strategy involves both online preorders and physical interaction. Demos of the glasses will be available at selected retail locations to give potential buyers a feel for the hardware. This allows customers to see how the frames look and feel before committing to a purchase.

As the December 2026 launch approaches, the focus will likely shift toward how these glasses integrate into daily routines. The success of the product will depend on whether the hands-free AI feels natural enough to replace traditional phone interactions. For now, the transition to preorders marks a major milestone in Google's wearable hardware roadmap.