Google is concentrating on the Android XR headset software and “micro XR” for AR glasses.
A hardware arms race for augmented reality (AR) is now developing among Samsung, Apple, and Meta. Google once participated in that competition by working on a device called Project Iris. But after scrapping the project, it appears Google has given up on that race.
In January 2022, The Verge published a piece that contained the first information regarding Project Iris. It was an augmented reality device resembling a pair of ski goggles. However, that specific device was an independent AR project created in collaboration with Samsung that was unveiled earlier this year. The actual Project Iris consisted of several items that looked like glasses.
According to a Business Insider article, Iris was going to be released by Google as its own product. A Canadian maker of smart glasses named North was purchased by the tech giant in 2020 to aid in the creation of this next-generation Google Glass replacement. Even the translation capabilities of the device were publicly shown.
Nevertheless, the outlet’s sources said the device was shelved due to layoffs, reorganizations, and the resignation of Google’s head of augmented and virtual reality. According to the sources, staff members became dissatisfied with management since they frequently modified the Iris approach, pushing them to pivot constantly.
The Mountain View-based company is now shifting its emphasis from hardware development to AR software development. In May, we revealed that Google had acknowledged developing an Android XR framework for Samsung’s augmented reality headgear. But this most recent source also refers to a “micro XR” platform designed for AR glasses. As with its mobile OS, the corporation reportedly plans to license its software to the companies creating these gadgets.
Although Google’s augmented reality glasses have reached their end, two employees reportedly stated that Project Iris might one day be revived. Some teams are still testing with AR technologies.
With the Vision Pro, Samsung’s headset, and rumors that Meta is developing its own AR glasses, Google’s decision may cause the business to lag behind its rivals in the market. Google, however, also took its time with the Pixel Fold’s development.
