Sergey Brin Admits Google Glass Mistakes - Innovation & Tech

Sergey Brin Reflects on Google Glass and the Future of Smart Glasses

During a discussion at Google I/O 2025, Google co-founder Sergey Brin openly admitted to having “made a lot of mistakes” with the initial Google Glass project. This revelation came during an unexpected appearance alongside Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis, interviewed by Alex Kantrowitz of the Big Technology Podcast.

Challenges with Initial Development

Brin explained that a key issue was a lack of understanding regarding the complexities of consumer electronic supply chains. He acknowledged the difficulty inherent in creating smart glasses that could be manufactured at an accessible price point.

Despite the past challenges, Brin remains optimistic about the potential of smart glasses. He expressed his continued belief in the form factor and voiced his satisfaction that Google is revisiting the technology with the support of “great partners.”

Google's Renewed Focus on Android XR

Google unveiled its latest venture into smart glasses, the Android XR project, earlier on Tuesday. This initiative marks approximately a decade since the original Google Glass project was discontinued.

Demonstrations showcased the capabilities of these new smart glasses, powered by DeepMind’s Project Astra. These include real-time translations, navigational assistance, and the ability to handle a wide range of AI-driven inquiries.

Strategic Partnerships

To facilitate the development of Android XR glasses with advanced AI and AR capabilities, Google is collaborating with a network of industry leaders. Key partners include Samsung and Xreal.

Furthermore, Google is investing up to $150 million in a strategic partnership with Warby Parker, also acquiring an equity stake in the eyewear company. This investment is intended to bolster Google’s efforts in the smart glasses arena.

As Brin pointed out, the expertise of established eyewear and electronics manufacturers is crucial in addressing the supply chain hurdles associated with smart glasses production.

The Impact of Generative AI

Brin highlighted that the emergence of generative AI significantly enhances the practicality and appeal of smart glasses compared to the landscape during the original Google Glass era.

Brin's Return to Active Development

Earlier in the interview, Brin revealed his effective return from retirement to contribute to Google’s Gemini efforts. He stated he is regularly present at the Mountain View, California office.

His current focus involves assisting the Gemini team with multimodal projects, including Google’s video generation model, Veo 3.

A Call to Action for Computer Scientists

“Anybody who’s a computer scientist should not be retired right now,” Brin asserted. “They should be working on AI.”

Driving Innovation in the AI Race

Reports suggest that Brin has been actively pushing Google’s Gemini teams to accelerate their progress in the competitive AI landscape. He reportedly communicated to Google employees, via a memo, the expectation of in-office presence on weekdays and suggested a 60-hour workweek as optimal for productivity.