Google's Sergey Brin on Google's 'biggest flop gadget': Didn't know ...

Time of India

21-05-2025

Google
co-founder
Sergey Brin
has acknowledged to making "a lot of mistakes" with the original
Google Glass
(biggest flop gadget of the company), admitting the challenges that let to its initial struggle. Speaking at Google's annual developer conference —
Google I/O 2025
, Brin said that he didn't fully understand the consumer electronics supply chain when developing the product. This in-turn led to manufacturing and pricing challenges which finally doomed the wearable.
What Google co-fonder Sergey Brin said about Google Glass
In an interview with Big Technology Podcast's Alex Kantrowitz, Brin conceded that Google Glass, first introduced in 2013, was perhaps 'ahead of its time'. He also pointed out that lack of understanding of consumer electronics supply chain and difficulties in making an affordable smart glasses were some missteps. 'Didn't know anything about consumer electronic supply chains, or how difficult it would be to build smart glasses at a reasonable price point,' said Brin.
Despite the past setbacks, Brin still believes the fundamental form factor of Google Glass was "pretty cool" and now sees it as the "perfect hardware" for AI.
Google brings smart glasses out of shade with Android XR
Following last week's Android Show, where Google previewed some Android 16 features, I/O provided more details on Google's
mixed reality
plans. The company unveiled its
Android XR
platform for augmented, mixed, and virtual reality devices.
The most interesting development is
Project Aura
, a prototype of Android XR-powered smart glasses developed with Xreal. These glasses will feature Gemini integration and a large field of view, along with built-in cameras and microphones. Google is also partnering with popular eyewear brands including Samsung, Gentle Monster, and
Warby Parker
to create more stylish options.
Android XR will support features like live translation, directional navigation via a mini Google Maps display, and the ability to view immersive 360-degree videos. After Google Glass and previous AR attempts, this feels like the company's most serious push yet into wearable computing.
Google commits $150 million toward the development of AI-powered glasses
At the Google I/O 2025, the tech giant confirmed that it will commit 150 mullion to the consumer eyewear company Warby Parker for the development of
AI-powered smart glasses
.
As part of this collaboration, Google has committed up to $75 million for Warby Parker's product development and commercialization costs. In addition, Google has committed to investing up to $75 million in Warby Parker, at Warby Parker's option and subject to reaching certain collaboration milestones.
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