Google’s $395 Android XR Glasses Win on App Simplicity as Meta’s AI App Draws Backlash
Updated
Updated · 9to5Google · Nov 13
Google’s $395 Android XR Glasses Win on App Simplicity as Meta’s AI App Draws Backlash
3 articles · Updated · 9to5Google · Nov 13
Summary
$395-and-up Android XR glasses impressed in a first hands-on less for the hardware than for Google’s stripped-down companion app, which the reviewer said beats Meta Ray-Bans’ software experience.
About 4 seconds after capture, photos auto-import into Google’s Glasses app, which centers on battery, connection, camera and Gemini settings rather than an AI chatbot; videos take longer and may require manual import.
Across Android, iPhone and Samsung Galaxy, the app keeps the same utility-first design, though iPhone imports are slower and Samsung uses a One UI-styled version.
Meta’s software became the main point of contrast after it replaced the dedicated View app in early 2025 with a Meta AI app, making basic tasks like changing settings or importing photos feel more intrusive.
The comparison matters as Google pushes Android XR glasses into a market where Meta’s Ray-Bans still dominate, with preorders open now and shipping set for Dec. 10.