smart glasses Archives

AppWizard

April 21, 2025

Latest Android Auto v14.2 seemingly dashes hopes of smart glasses navigation

Google has started rolling out version 14.2 of Android Auto, focusing on bug fixes and minor adjustments. The update does not mention "Glasses," which had previously led to speculation about smart glasses integration. This speculation arose from a Hindi version of the app that included references to "Glasses" and navigation capabilities, but discrepancies between language versions suggest it may have been a translation error. Additionally, Google has showcased ambitions for smart glasses in a TED 2025 demonstration, featuring a "memory" function that helps users track lost items.

AppWizard

February 12, 2025

Android XR apps will have camera permissions similar to Android phones

In December of last year, Google introduced Android XR, an extended reality operating system for virtual and mixed reality headsets, with a commercial launch planned for 2025. Samsung is developing a headset for this platform, called Project Moohan, and Google’s DeepMind subsidiary is creating a pair of smart glasses. Android XR app developers can request camera permissions similar to those on Android smartphones, allowing access to both world-facing and selfie cameras. Unlike Meta’s Quest 3 and Apple’s Vision Pro, which do not allow third-party camera access, Android XR will enable developers to access the living room feed through the headset's cameras to enhance mixed-reality applications. Developers can also request access to "Scene Understanding" features, including light estimation and advanced tracking capabilities for hand movements. Basic hand tracking functionalities will be available by default, with further details expected from Google soon.

Winsage

December 15, 2024

Android 15 is preventing Windows Phone Link from showing certain notifications

Phone Link app users may experience changes in notification visibility due to a new feature in Android 15 that restricts access to sensitive notifications for privacy reasons. Notifications containing sensitive details, such as two-factor authentication codes, will not be displayed unless the application has the RECEIVESENSITIVENOTIFICATIONS permission. This permission is typically granted to system apps and some trusted third-party companion applications. Phone Link, categorized as a third-party app, is expected to request the necessary permissions to access sensitive notifications, but this will only occur for users with Samsung devices running One UI 6.1.1 or later.

BetaBeacon

December 14, 2024

Google Steps Up Mixed Reality Game with New Integration

Google is introducing a new Android XR operating system and Gemini AI for smart glasses and augmented reality, putting them in direct competition with Apple and Meta. The Android XR system, developed with Samsung, will power AR and VR experiences, with the Gemini AI enhancing user experience by facilitating conversations and device control. The integration of Android XR with Gemini 2.0 AI aims to create AI models capable of understanding the world and making decisions. Google plans to adapt popular apps for immersive experiences through Android XR, with prototype glasses undergoing testing soon. The company is optimistic about the transformative potential of Android XR in revolutionizing user interaction with technology.

Winsage

December 13, 2024

Microsoft XR and Windows Mixed Reality: Could the HoloLens Make a Comeback?

Microsoft introduced the Windows Mixed Reality platform in 2017, enabling various PC manufacturers to create consumer-ready XR headsets. In 2016, Microsoft launched the HoloLens, followed by the HoloLens 2, which was aimed at enterprise users but struggled in the consumer market. Recently, Microsoft discontinued the HoloLens and ceased support for Windows Mixed Reality, leading to speculation about its future in XR. In December 2023, Microsoft announced the removal of Windows Mixed Reality from Windows 11, making previous devices inoperable after a 2024 update. Despite this, Microsoft is shifting towards becoming a software provider for other XR vendors, partnering with companies like Unity and Meta to develop mixed reality solutions for devices like the Quest 3. Microsoft also announced a long-term partnership with RealWear for distributing Power Apps for smart glasses. The HoloLens 2 will continue to receive security updates until December 2027, but no new HoloLens headsets are in development. Microsoft has partnered with Samsung to produce mini OLED panels for a potential new line of mixed reality headsets, with mass production expected in 2026.

AppWizard

December 12, 2024

I saw Google’s plan to put Android on your face

On a Tuesday, the author experienced a demonstration of Android XR, a new mixed reality operating system for headsets and smart glasses, featuring real-time translation through augmented reality. Google is re-entering the augmented reality market with Android XR, following the reimagining of Google Glass for enterprise use, amidst competition from Apple and Meta. Central to this initiative is Gemini, a multimodal AI that enhances interactions, capable of identifying objects and integrating with mobile apps from the Play Store. Samsung's Project Moohan, set to launch in 2025, aims to blend augmented and virtual reality with a lightweight design. The headset's features include eye calibration and context-aware communication, allowing users to interact intuitively. Google is focused on collaborating with partners and fostering developer engagement while promoting a diverse ecosystem of devices. The author noted the need for consumer acceptance and the importance of unrestricted interaction with the technology.

AppWizard

November 15, 2024

The Google Glass companion app might find a new life with Android XR

Google has introduced the Android Glasses Core app as part of its latest Android beta update, which shares the same package name as the companion application for the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2. Samsung is expected to launch a new extended reality (XR) product in 2025, powered by a Qualcomm chipset, with a collaborative effort between Samsung, Qualcomm, and Google to develop a new version of Android for XR devices called Android XR. The recent beta release of Android 15 includes the Android Glasses Core app, categorized as a privileged system app, which has not been publicly available before. The app was previously associated with the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2, launched in 2019, and facilitated streaming applications when paired with an Android phone. The version in the beta is newer and features a refreshed icon, suggesting a potential shift in purpose. Speculation arises that Google may be repurposing the Android Glasses Core app for upcoming Android XR products. Additionally, the Google Play Store is preparing for applications designed for Android XR headsets, indicating a seamless installation process, while Samsung aims to enhance connectivity among its products, including XR devices.

AppWizard

October 22, 2024

Here’s how Android 15 protects your two-factor authentication codes from malicious apps

Android 15 introduces enhanced security for notifications containing two-factor authentication codes by classifying them as "sensitive." Only trusted applications, which must have the RECEIVESENSITIVENOTIFICATIONS permission, can access these notifications, preventing untrusted apps from reading them. The Android System Intelligence (ASI) processes notifications and marks those with sensitive content, ensuring untrusted apps receive a notification stating, “sensitive notification content hidden.” This change aims to improve security against hacking attempts but may disrupt automation tools that read notifications. Workarounds exist to restore previous functionality, but they pose potential security risks.

Winsage

October 5, 2024

Get ready to meet your AI best friend

The latest version of Microsoft Copilot features a warmer, more approachable interface, reflecting Microsoft's goal to redefine AI as more than just a productivity tool. The concept of "agentic" AI, which can interact with apps and devices on behalf of users, is gaining interest, although many implementations still feel incomplete. OpenAI has secured .6 billion in funding and must now demonstrate effective investment strategies. A group of students has integrated facial recognition technology into smart glasses, and Sonos is attempting a comeback after app-related issues. The future of WordPress is uncertain, and the lightning round included farewells to cohost Alex Cranz, discussions on the Dish and DirecTV merger, Nintendo's actions against emulators, and Google's new web app for headphone management.