Google recently abandoned its internal project known as “Iris,” which aimed to develop augmented reality glasses, according to a report from Business Insider. The tech giant had been working on the project for several years but ultimately decided to shelve it due to a series of layoffs and company reshuffles. The departure of Clay Bavor, Google’s former chief of augmented and virtual reality, also played a role in the decision. Bavor left the company to start a startup with Salesforce co-CEO Bret Taylor. Furthermore, Google’s constantly changing strategy for the Iris glasses caused frustration among the team members working on the project.
In early 2022, The Verge reported on the Iris augmented reality glasses and speculated that Google could launch the device in 2024. These AR glasses were designed to resemble a pair of ordinary glasses, and an early version reportedly bore similarities to North’s “Focals,” a product acquired by Google in 2020. Google even showcased a newer version of the glasses in a video demonstrating a real-time AR translation feature.
While Google may have halted its own AR hardware development, Business Insider suggests that the company still possesses significant augmented reality ambitions. Rather than focusing on creating its hardware, Google has chosen to prioritize the development of an “Android for AR.” The company aims to adopt a similar business model to its mobile platform by licensing its AR software to manufacturers. Currently, Google is busy working on Android XR for Samsung’s “extended reality” wearable devices and is reportedly developing a new platform called “micro XR” specifically for glasses.
It is important to note that despite the setback with Iris, Google remains committed to the potential of augmented reality technology. Instead of creating its own hardware, the company is redirecting its efforts towards software development, seeing an opportunity to shape the future of AR through licensing partnerships. By focusing on creating an “Android for AR” ecosystem, Google aims to provide manufacturers with a powerful software platform to build their AR products upon.
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This decision from Google reflects the ongoing evolution and market demands within the augmented reality space. By pivoting towards software development, Google can leverage its expertise in mobile platforms and potentially establish itself as a dominant player in the AR software market. Licensing its software to manufacturers allows the company to reach a broader audience while also benefiting from the versatility and innovation that different hardware manufacturers can bring to the table.
Android XR, currently being developed for Samsung’s “extended reality” wearable devices, shows Google’s commitment to creating a robust AR platform. With this software, Samsung and other manufacturers will have access to a comprehensive suite of AR tools and capabilities that can be seamlessly integrated into their products. Additionally, Google’s focus on developing a “micro XR” platform specifically for glasses suggests a recognition of the unique opportunities and challenges that AR glasses present.
Despite the cancellation of the Iris project, Google is demonstrating its adaptability and determination to be at the forefront of the augmented reality revolution. Through its “Android for AR” strategy, the company is positioning itself to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AR technology. By enabling manufacturers to leverage its AR software, Google aims to facilitate the widespread adoption and advancement of augmented reality across various industries and applications.
In conclusion, Google’s decision to discontinue the Iris project signifies a shift in its approach to augmented reality. The company is now focusing on developing an “Android for AR” ecosystem, licensing its software to manufacturers and offering a robust suite of AR tools and capabilities. While the Iris project may have been abandoned, Google remains committed to augmented reality and aims to be a key player in shaping the future of this technology.
