II. Specific Companies & Products

Samsung's AI-Powered Smart Glasses (Haean) and Rivian's Micromobility Startup (Also): A Deep Dive into Emerging Tech

The tech landscape is evolving rapidly, with companies like Samsung and Rivian pushing boundaries in augmented reality (AR) wearables and micromobility. This article explores Samsung's upcoming AI-powered smart glasses, codenamed "Haean," and Rivian's spin-off micromobility startup, Also, highlighting their features, market potential, and competitive positioning.

### Samsung's Haean Smart Glasses: Blending AI and AR

Samsung is gearing up to enter the smart glasses market with its Haean project, a pair of AI-powered AR glasses slated for launch before the end of 2025. These glasses aim to combine cutting-edge technology with user-friendly design, positioning Samsung as a strong competitor in the wearable tech space.

#### Design and Features

The Haean smart glasses are designed for comfort and accessibility, accommodating various face shapes to ensure long-term wearability. Key features include:
- **Gesture Controls**: Users can interact with the glasses intuitively, eliminating the need for physical buttons.
- **Hardware**: Powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2 chip, the same processor used in Samsung's Project Moohan XR headset, ensuring robust performance.
- **Camera and Battery**: Rumored specs include a 12MP camera and a 155mAh battery, though these may change before release.
- **Lightweight Build**: Weighing around 150 grams, the glasses prioritize comfort for extended use.
- **AI Integration**: Potential collaboration with Google's Gemini AI could enable smart assistant features like real-time translation, navigation, and QR code payments.

#### Launch and Market Strategy

Initially, Samsung considered unveiling Haean at the Galaxy Unpacked event in January 2025 alongside the Galaxy S25 series. However, recent reports suggest a launch before the end of 2025, possibly alongside the Project Moohan XR headset. Samsung plans an initial production run of 500,000 units, signaling strong confidence in the product's market appeal.

#### Competitive Landscape

Samsung faces stiff competition from established players like Meta and Ray-Ban, as well as emerging rivals like Apple and Solos. By integrating advanced AI and AR capabilities, Samsung aims to differentiate Haean and carve out a significant share of the growing smart glasses market.

### Rivian's Also: A New Player in Micromobility

Rivian, known for its electric trucks and SUVs, has spun off a new micromobility startup called Also. Backed by $105 million in Series B funding from Eclipse Ventures, Also focuses on developing small, lightweight electric vehicles (EVs) that combine Rivian's engineering expertise with affordability.

#### Origins and Leadership

Also emerged from a secret skunkworks program at Rivian, reflecting years of behind-the-scenes development. The startup is led by Chris Yu, former VP of Future Programs at Rivian, with Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe serving as Chairman of Also's Board of Directors.

#### Product Vision

Also plans to offer a diverse lineup of micromobility solutions, including:
- E-bikes
- Three- and four-wheeled vehicles
- Neighborhood EVs
- Micro cars

The company aims to address the high cost of premium e-bikes by delivering Rivian-quality products at more accessible price points.

#### Funding and Independence

With $105 million in funding, Also will operate as a standalone company, allowing Rivian to focus on its core electric trucks and SUVs while Also explores innovative micromobility solutions. This strategic separation ensures both companies can thrive in their respective niches.

#### Upcoming Plans

Also is set to unveil its flagship product later this year, with U.S. customer deliveries expected to begin in 2026. By leveraging Rivian's EV technology, Also is well-positioned to disrupt the micromobility market with reliable, affordable options.

### Conclusion

Samsung's Haean smart glasses and Rivian's Also represent significant strides in their respective fields. Samsung's foray into AR wearables underscores the growing demand for immersive tech, while Also's focus on affordable micromobility highlights the shift toward sustainable urban transportation. Both innovations reflect the tech industry's relentless pursuit of smarter, more accessible solutions for consumers worldwide.

As these products near launch, their success will depend on execution, market reception, and the ability to stand out in increasingly competitive landscapes. One thing is certain: the future of wearable tech and micromobility looks brighter than ever.