A New Frontier in Wearables: Google and Gucci Look Toward Smart Glasses

Slated for 2027, the concept blends luxury aesthetics with immersive Android XR capabilities.

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Gucci and Google have formally collaborated to create the forthcoming Gucci AI smart glasses. Kering CEO Luca de Meo confirmed in an interview with Reuters that the French luxury group intends to develop AI-powered eyewear as it broadens its technological presence. The collaborative initiative aims for a 2027 release, positioning Gucci as the first prominent luxury brand to enter the competitive AI eyewear market. The wearable device is anticipated to incorporate cameras, microphones, and speakers, although particular design specifics are not yet revealed, and it will function on Google’s Android XR platform. This action establishes a direct competition with prominent market leaders, namely the Italian-French eyeglasses conglomerate EssilorLuxottica and Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses.

The foray into smart eyewear constitutes a pivotal element of de Meo’s overarching strategy to expand Kering’s non-core sectors, encompassing eyewear and jewellery. By diversifying its revenue streams, the luxury business aims to protect itself from changing fashion preferences and rejuvenate Gucci after a decline in sales. Highlighting the brand's 105-year legacy, de Meo indicated that the label will realign with its most iconic design principles in the future.