Global Smart Eyewear Shipments Increased 35.3% in Q2
Global smart eyewear shipments grew 35.3% year-over-year in the second quarter, reaching 3.55 million units. Audio and camera-enabled glasses, along with AR/ER eyewear, led the growth, while VR/MR headset shipments declined.
Global smart eyewear shipments saw a 35.3% year-over-year increase in the second quarter of 2026, reaching 3.55 million units, according to a new report from International Data Corporation (IDC).
The growth was primarily driven by audio and camera-enabled smart glasses, which saw a 54% rise in shipments, and AR/ER (Augmented Reality/Extended Reality) glasses, which grew by 75.7%. In contrast, VR/MR (Virtual Reality/Mixed Reality) headset shipments experienced a 23.3% decline.
Leading international manufacturers, such as Meta, continue to shape the industry's direction, with a growing focus on ecosystem integration and AI experiences. Apple is also reportedly nearing the production phase for its own smart glasses.
Chinese technology innovators are accelerating their global expansion. Companies like T-Vision and Xreal are enhancing their international presence through diversified product lines and expanded distribution channels, increasing their overseas market share.
Domestically, the Chinese smart eyewear market experienced a contraction of 8.0% in the second quarter. This decline was largely attributed to a slowdown in the audio glasses segment. However, the overall market remains dynamic with ongoing innovation and the emergence of new players, alongside a growing share for audio-camera smart glasses.