The AI glasses market posted record growth in the first half of 2026, although research firms reported different totals and growth rates. Omdia measured 4.2 million global shipments, up 127% year over year, with Meta shipping 3.4 million units for an 81.3% share. Counterpoint Research reported 263% growth, with display-less products accounting for 96% of shipments and Meta holding 94% of that segment. The differing figures likely reflect variations in market definitions and methodologies. Screenless glasses drove adoption through cameras, open-ear audio, microphones and AI assistants, while AR-enabled glasses grew rapidly from a small base. Chinese vendors including Xiaomi, Rokid, Alibaba, INMO and Even Realities are broadening competition, and Samsung, Google and Apple are preparing additional products. Privacy concerns surrounding concealed cameras and rising memory and semiconductor costs remain potential constraints, while camera-free audio glasses and agentic AI devices are emerging as alternative designs.