- Alibaba's Qwen AI glasses sold out in multiple channels within three hours of launch, signaling robust consumer demand.
- The move accelerates Alibaba's push to extend AI services into the physical world, challenging rivals like Meta in the race for next-generation interfaces.
Alibaba's newly launched Qwen AI glasses topped China's smart glasses sales charts just three hours after going on sale Sunday. The highly anticipated wearable device has already sold out across multiple retail channels.
The AI glasses, dubbed the G1 series, carry an official price tag of 2,899 yuan. After factoring in government subsidies and platform discounts, Chinese consumers can purchase the device for as low as 1,997 yuan.
The Qwen AI glasses weigh about 41 grams and feature 64 gigabytes of local storage along with bone-conduction audio technology.
The right temple of the device features an innovative hot-swappable battery design, aimed at easing users' battery anxiety during outdoor use.
Alibaba is positioning the glasses as a portable AI terminal. Users can currently order the device directly via voice commands on the Qwen app, with same-day delivery available.
Starting later this month, the Qwen app will be integrated with the glasses. Users are expected to be able to order food delivery, book hotels, and hail rides directly through the device.
The product made its debut at the recently concluded Mobile World Congress 2026. Early testers noted that it offers stronger competitiveness in battery life and night photography compared to Meta Platforms Inc's smart glasses.
The foray into hardware is a key component of Alibaba's recent restructuring of its consumer-facing AI strategy. The company established the Qwen Consumer Business Group in December 2025, aiming to build Qwen into a versatile super app across all scenarios.
Global tech giants are currently rushing into the consumer AI hardware space. In addition to Meta, companies including OpenAI and ByteDance are actively developing their own AI hardware products.
Alibaba's hardware lineup will eventually expand to include AI earphones and smart rings. The Qwen AI glasses are slated to launch in international markets later this year, officially entering the global competition.
