fbpx

Best smart glasses 2026: Who already dictates the future on the nose?

A vision of the future that is already here

Photo: Janja Prijatelj / Aiart

Smart glasses are no longer just a geeky fad, but a serious competitor to smartphones. In 2026, we're finally starting to see the world through a smarter lens - literally. Which smart glasses are trending in 2026, and who's predicting a breakthrough in the coming months?

The best smart glasses 2026: If you waved your hand at smart glasses last year as a technological fad for IT hipsters, it's time to put on some new ones - literally and metaphorically. In 2026, smart glasses are no longer just an exotic accessory, but an elegant fusion of style, functionality and futurism that you'll want to show off outside of Zoom meetings.

Photo: Janja Prijatelj / Aiart

Here is our pick: the best smart glasses 2026:

1. Meta Ray-Ban Smart Glasses (2nd generation)

Best for: social metaverse metamorphoses

Meta in collaboration with Ray-Ban continues to break down the boundaries between fashion and technology. The second generation brings improved cameras, better sound, and a built-in AI assistant that listens for “Hey Meta” – because why say “Siri” or “Alexa” when you can just shout “Meta” into the air?

Features:

    • HD camera with live streaming (Instagrammers, hello!)
    • 5 microphone points for spatial sound capture
    • Integration with Instagram and WhatsApp
    • Stylish Ray-Ban models (finally an AI that doesn't scream "nerd")

2. Xreal Air 2 Ultra

Best for: Augmented reality, which is no longer just for gamers

Xreal (formerly Nreal) has brought you glasses that can replace your monitor, tablet, and even TV. The Air 2 Ultra is lighter, more powerful, and – dare we say it – more futuristic than some sci-fi movies.

Features:

    • Full-HD microOLED display (each eye its own cinema)
    • 6DoF (six-degree head tracking)
    • Works with phones, PCs, and game consoles
    • Supports surround sound and AR applications

3. Rokid Max AR

Best for: business people with vision (and a little more imagination)

Rock It may not be the most well-known name in the West, but its Max AR glasses offer impressive visuals and capabilities for serious work – or serious gaming. You can connect them to almost any device and create a private screen anywhere. Even during boring meetings (but pssst).

Features:

    • 215″ virtual screen (no, not a typo)
    • Android, iOS, Windows and Steam Deck support
    • Lightweight design (no more excuses for neck pain)

4. TCL RayNeo X2

Best for: lovers of live translation and AR navigation

TCL continues its journey of innovation with the RayNeo X2, aimed at everyday use – real-time translation, city navigation, information display. When someone mumbles something to you in Japanese? The glasses translate, you just nod. The dream of every tourist and diplomat!

Features:

    • Integration with translator and GPS
    • Built-in camera and microphones
    • Good display of AR layers in a real environment

What's coming in 2026? Who's predicting a revolution?

Apple Vision Glasses (2026? Maybe?)

Apple is still officially silent (as always, of course), but there are rumors coming from Cupertino. very loud rumorsAfter launching the Apple Vision Pro, which was more of a “when-you-sit-down-with-a-belt” product, Apple is expected to introduce a lighter, more everyday version in 2026 or 2027 – glasses that we can actually wear outside of the lab or living room.

If someone were to make smart glasses for the masses that are simultaneously cool, they're probably the ones. And what if FaceTime on the nose comes along with it? It's only a matter of time before we start blinking emojis.

Samsung Galaxy Glasses

Samsung is not far behind. In fact, 2026 seems to be the year they’ll enter the AR world with Galaxy Glasses. Rumor has it that it’s a direct competitor to Apple, with deep integration into the Galaxy ecosystem and powered by an Exynos AR chip. If that means more TikTok filters in the real world… we’re already interested.

Will we be watching more than typing in 2026?

Smart glasses 2026 are no longer an experiment – they are the new reality. While some are still turning a blind eye (literally), those with vision are already one step ahead – with their noses in the future. Will these glasses replace smartphones? Maybe not this year. But they are undoubtedly preparing us for a world where information, translations, maps and video calls will be just… a glance away.

And if in that future you find yourself with smart glasses that can read your email, translate for your waiter, and even choose the right filter for your selfie – just remember to look around you every now and then. The real world is still there. It’s just more… expanded.

With you since 2004

From 2004 we research urban trends and inform our community of followers daily about the latest in lifestyle, travel, style and products that inspire with passion. From 2023, we offer content in major global languages.