Naver says it will bring Map navigation to AI glasses

Naver said on Oct. 12 that it would bring Naver Map navigation to AI glasses through work with Meta, Google and Samsung.[1] It described the move as the first case among domestic map services to support navigation linked to AI glasses.[1] The tie-up extends Naver Map’s real-time walking voice guidance to more device types.[1] The company had introduced real-time voice guidance for walking routes the previous June.[1] Naver’s walking guidance was described as similar to voice guidance in car navigation systems.[2]

Users will be able to receive spoken directions to a destination through AI glasses without checking a smartphone screen.[1] The walking guidance includes information about travel direction and whether the route involves stairs or escalators.[1] Naver plans to add a voice-call function designed specifically for AI glasses.[1] With that function, users will be able to ask for their estimated arrival time while moving or ask for a nearby convenience store.[1] Naver also says the glasses could let users access navigation and local information while moving without frequently checking a phone.[1]

Naver said support would first be available on Meta’s Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta glasses.[1] It plans to bring the feature to Google and Samsung intelligent eyewear, which was due to be released within the year.[1] The navigation feature is planned to support Android first, with iOS support to arrive later in stages.[1] On Google-Samsung eyewear, users will be able to launch Naver Map and get navigation through Gemini by voice.[1] The evidence does not specify a launch date for the feature or an iOS rollout schedule.[1]

Naver plans to connect the glasses with local information accumulated in Naver Map to provide details about nearby stores and places.[1] The service also provides real-time voice information about restaurants and cafes near a destination.[3] For AI glasses equipped with displays, Naver said it is considering augmented-reality route guidance.[1] It is also considering showing nearby-store information and place coupons on those displays.[1] Those display-based features are under consideration, rather than described as part of the initial rollout.[1]