How to Use Hey Gemini on Android XR Glasses

Google’s Intelligent Eyewear introduces “Hey Gemini” as the primary hotword on Android XR glasses. These audio frames from Warby Parker and Gentle Monster let you call Gemini without touching your phone. Pre-orders opened November 12, 2026, with full availability on December 10.

The hotword works only on the glasses at launch. “Hey Google” and “OK Google” remain available as alternatives. Once activated, Gemini responds through open-ear speakers while you keep your eyes on the world around you.

Set Up Your Glasses First

Pair the glasses with a compatible phone before using the hotword. Supported devices include Pixel 7 series and later on the Android 17 September 2026 update or newer, Galaxy S/Z series on One UI 9.0 or higher, and iPhone 13 Pro and later.

1. Charge the glasses and open the case so they enter pairing mode.
2. On your phone, go to Settings > Connected devices > Pair new device.
3. Select the Intelligent Eyewear and complete the connection.
4. Open the Gemini app and confirm the glasses appear as a linked device.

For the full pre-order and compatibility details, see our guide on how to pre-order Intelligent Eyewear.

After pairing, put on the frames. The lightweight design (around 41 grams) and nine-hour battery life support all-day wear. The charging case holds enough power for multiple recharges.

Activate Hey Gemini

Say “Hey Gemini” clearly while wearing the glasses. The microphones pick up the phrase and start a Gemini Live session. You can also long-press the touch-sensitive area on the right temple to activate Gemini without speaking.

The system is designed for low-latency responses customized for glasses. Short, spoken answers play through the open-ear speakers so you stay aware of ambient sound. Gemini does not passively watch through the camera; you must explicitly ask it to look at something.

Example prompts that work well:

• “Hey Gemini, what is this?” while holding an object in view.
• “Hey Gemini, add this to my grocery list” while looking at an item.
• “Hey Gemini, translate this conversation.”
• “Hey Gemini, get me directions to the nearest coffee shop.”

Stop the session by tapping and swiping backward on the touchpad or saying a stop command if supported.

Core Features You Can Use Hands-Free

Gemini on the glasses connects to the Google apps you already use. When you explore a new area, it delivers turn-by-turn Google Maps directions in your ear based on your location and facing direction. You can add stops or ask for nearby recommendations that match your preferences.

Google Translate provides real-time speech translation with automatic language detection across more than 70 languages. Speak or listen, and the translation arrives privately in your ear.

The 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera lets you capture photos and short videos by pressing the physical button or asking Gemini. HDR processing and stabilization keep results clear. An LED indicator light turns on during recording so people nearby know the camera is active. Recording stops if the light is covered.

Guided Vision offers conversational audio descriptions for reading small print or locating everyday items. Users can also say “Hey Gemini, open Aira Explorer” to stream the camera feed to a trained human visual interpreter through the Aira partnership. These accessibility features require a compatible Android phone at launch.

You can manage calls, send texts, summarize missed messages, and play music from YouTube Music, Spotify, or Apple Music—all without taking out your phone. Watch gestures or double-pinch on a paired Pixel Watch or Galaxy Watch can also control playback or activate Gemini.

Privacy and Controls

Camera visuals used by Gemini are not saved to your Gemini History and are not used for model training or ad targeting. The glasses automatically redact bystanders’ faces before processing. Data stored on the device is encrypted, and any data that leaves the glasses is encrypted in transit.

You control which apps access the camera and microphone. Review or delete chats in Gemini History at any time. An off switch lets you wear the frames as ordinary glasses with all electronics disabled. The indicator light ensures transparency when you record for your personal gallery.

These protections address common concerns about smart glasses. Gemini only processes visuals when you explicitly request it.

Tips for Better Results

Speak the hotword at a natural volume in quiet or moderately noisy environments. For visual queries, phrase your request so Gemini knows to use the camera—for example, “look at this and tell me what it is.”

Keep the glasses charged and the phone nearby for full functionality, as many features rely on the paired device. Test different frame styles if possible at a Warby Parker or Gentle Monster demo location, since comfort varies.

“Hey Gemini” is currently exclusive to these glasses. On phones you still use “Hey Google.” Expect the hotword experience to expand as Android XR grows.

Conclusion

“Hey Gemini” turns Intelligent Eyewear into a practical hands-free assistant for directions, translation, lists, photos, and daily tasks. Pair your glasses, say the hotword, and keep your phone in your pocket. Pre-orders are open now through Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, with devices shipping from December 10, 2026.

Sources

• Google Blog: See our intelligent eyewear lineup and pre-order your pair (November 12, 2026)
• Google Blog: Designing for privacy on intelligent eyewear (November 12, 2026)
• 9to5Google: Hands-on with Google and Samsung’s Android XR glasses (November 12, 2026)
• WIRED: Google and Samsung’s Android XR Smart Glasses Are Finally Here (November 12, 2026)
• glasses.google official product information