Google Opens Preorders for Gemini Smart Glasses Starting at $395

Google opened preorders Thursday for its new Intelligent Eyewear collections, developed with Samsung and eyewear brands Warby Parker and Gentle Monster. The smart glasses are set to reach stores and online buyers on December 10.

Warby Parker's optical and sun frames start at $395. Gentle Monster's collection starts at $449. Prescription options are available, though the choices vary by frame.

The glasses put Gemini assistance in lightweight frames, with users able to ask questions, get spoken directions, translate conversations and handle messages without taking out their phone. Google says speech translation supports more than 70 languages.

A 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera can capture photos and video, while open-ear speakers handle music, calls and spoken replies. Google says the frames weigh around 41 grams and offer up to nine hours of battery life, depending on use and settings. A charging case is included.

The eyewear supports compatible Pixel and Samsung phones as well as selected iPhones. Some features are Android-only at launch, including Guided Vision and Aira visual assistance. Google cautions that Guided Vision can make mistakes and is not a medical device, mobility aid or replacement for safety tools such as a white cane.

Google says a recording light alerts people when the wearer takes photos or video for their gallery, and recording stops if that light is covered or disabled. The glasses also have a physical off switch. Use requires a compatible Google account for an adult in the United States or South Korea.