Samsung AR glasses confirmed for 2026 with AI features

Samsung has officially confirmed its AR glasses will launch before the end of 2026, marking the company's first firm commitment to a release window for the long-anticipated wearable. As reported by PCMag, Seong Cho, head of Samsung's mobile experience division, revealed during the company's Q4 2025 earnings call that Samsung plans to "deliver rich, immersive, multimodal AI experiences through diverse form factors such as next-generation AR glasses."

What Samsung AR glasses will offer

The AR glasses will run on Google's Android XR platform, the same system powering Samsung's previously teased Galaxy XR headset. This partnership positions Samsung to compete directly with Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses and Snap's upcoming Specs lineup.

Previous prototype leaks suggest the glasses could feature a 12MP camera, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and transition lenses that automatically darken in direct sunlight. However, Samsung hasn't confirmed these specifications officially, so the final product may differ significantly from early prototypes.

The focus on "multimodal AI experiences" suggests Samsung plans to integrate advanced AI features, likely building on the AI push we've seen across Samsung's recent product philosophy.

The smart glasses competition heats up

Samsung's entry into AR glasses comes as the wearable tech market faces increasing competition. Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses have gained traction with consumers, whilst companies like Apple continue developing their own augmented reality solutions.

The timing also aligns with Samsung's broader XR strategy. The company is expected to reveal more details about its augmented and virtual reality products at its next Unpacked event, likely scheduled for February 2025.

However, Cho warned that 2026 will be "challenging" for Samsung "due to the rising cost pressure across the industry." This suggests the AR glasses may launch at a premium price point, especially given Samsung's CEO previously indicated price increases across consumer tech products are "inevitable."

What this means for UAE buyers

Samsung hasn't announced UAE-specific pricing, availability dates, or local retailers for the AR glasses yet. Given the 2026 timeline, UAE consumers will likely have to wait until late next year to get their hands on Samsung's smart glasses.

The glasses will compete in a growing market where consumers are increasingly interested in AI-powered wearables that complement their existing devices. For UAE buyers already invested in Samsung's ecosystem through Galaxy smartphones, the AR glasses could offer seamless integration with existing devices.

Samsung's warning about rising costs suggests the AR glasses won't be budget-friendly. Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses start around $300-400 globally, so expect Samsung's AI-focused alternative to command a premium price when it reaches UAE retailers.

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