Two Galaxy Glasses, Two Timelines: Jinju and Haean
Recent leaks suggest Samsung is preparing a staggered smart eyewear release under the Samsung Galaxy Glasses banner, with two distinct models aimed at different users. The first-generation pair, codenamed “Jinju,” is an entry-level design that closely resembles conventional glasses and reportedly lacks any built-in display. Instead, it focuses on audio, microphones, camera, and AI-driven features, targeting everyday use rather than niche tech demos. Reports point to a potential late 2026 launch window for Jinju, marking Samsung’s first major push into augmented reality glasses that look and feel like normal eyewear. A more premium follow-up, codenamed “Haean,” is expected around 2027 and should add a micro-LED display for in-view notifications and richer AR overlays. Together, these two tiers indicate Samsung is cautiously probing what mainstream consumers will actually accept on their faces before committing to a single flagship vision for smart eyewear.
Inside Jinju: Specs, Design, and Everyday Use
The Jinju version of the Samsung Galaxy Glasses is shaping up as a practical, first-wave device tuned for daily wear. Early information points to a lightweight frame of about 50 grams, helping it stay close to the feel of regular spectacles. Under the hood, Jinju is tipped to use a Qualcomm Snapdragon AR1 processor, paired with a 12MP Sony IMX681 camera that reportedly supports autofocus—an advantage over many fixed-focus smart glasses for reading small text or capturing distant details. Audio is handled via bone conduction, preserving environmental awareness while enabling discreet calls and voice assistants. Power comes from a compact battery (leaks vary between 155mAh and 245mAh), roughly in line with current smart eyewear, and aimed at several hours of mixed use. By skipping a display, Jinju leans on AI features like translation and hands-free photography while keeping the design subtle enough for all-day wear.
Haean and the Move Toward True Augmented Reality
While Jinju is about discreet intelligence, Haean points toward full-fledged augmented reality glasses. Expected to arrive in 2027, this premium Samsung Galaxy Glasses model is rumored to incorporate a micro-LED display that can project notifications and contextual information directly into the user’s field of view. That shift from audio-first to visual overlays moves Samsung deeper into the XR arena, complementing its broader extended reality strategy with Google and its earlier Galaxy XR headset. Early estimates place Haean in a higher price band than Jinju, reflecting the added complexity of display hardware and more immersive AR experiences. The design is still anticipated to resemble conventional eyewear rather than a bulky headset, which could be crucial for consumer acceptance. If Samsung balances brightness, battery life, and comfort, Haean could serve as a bridge between simple smart eyewear and truly mainstream AR glasses.
Direct Challenge to Meta’s Ray-Ban Smart Glasses
Positioning and pricing show that Jinju is a direct response to Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses. Like Meta’s display-free frames, Jinju prioritizes camera, audio, and AI assistants over visual overlays, embracing a familiar look that helps avoid the stigma of wearing obvious tech on your face. Leaks suggest Jinju will sit in the USD 379–499 (approx. RM1,750–2,300) range, which places it almost head-to-head with Meta’s premium Ray-Ban options. Both lines aim at hands-free photo and video capture, quick voice commands, and lightweight, fashion-conscious designs. However, Samsung’s reported autofocus camera could deliver sharper results than many fixed-focus rivals, and tight integration with Google’s Gemini AI may prove a differentiator for translations and contextual assistance. In contrast, Haean’s projected USD 600–900 (approx. RM2,770–4,150) bracket moves it into competition with emerging higher-end AR eyewear that prioritizes visual experiences.
Market Impact and Consumer Reception Prospects
Samsung’s dual-model strategy could significantly shape the next wave of augmented reality glasses adoption. By starting with Jinju, a more conservative, display-free design at a price comparable to Meta’s Ray-Ban lineup, Samsung is clearly targeting mainstream users who might not be ready for full AR but want smarter eyewear. This approach lets the company test real-world demand, refine AI and camera experiences, and gauge how much value people place on features like hands-free capture and live translation. Haean then acts as the aspirational step-up—offering visual overlays for those willing to pay more and accept slightly more visible tech. Success will hinge on whether Samsung can persuade users to replace their everyday frames with connected devices and whether battery life and comfort match expectations. If the company executes well, the Galaxy Glasses could help push smart eyewear from niche curiosity toward a familiar, normalized accessory.