Theiviya Lakshmikandan

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Check out how KPop had influenced Malaysians directly and indirectly.  

db51d05d96b936021c2f72c40d90ddc6d8a025c2b8515c675d454da2533ed115

 Malaysia, Have You Become A Kpop Addict?

Singapore has been ranked the <a href="https://happy-city-index.com/">third happiest city in the world</a> for 2025, following Copenhagen and Zurich, according to the latest Happy City Index by the London-based Institute for the Quality of Life. The annual study evaluates 250 cities across 82 indicators covering six themes: Citizens, Governance, Environment, Economy, Health, and Mobility.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1a1a9f86a02252095bf1b3ec8297965aa163f01183e352286f538fc9c20e1a55" />
Praised as a &ldquo;city-state unlike any other,&rdquo; the index commended Singapore for its economic strength, effective governance, and urban innovation. With a score of 979 points, Singapore was identified as one of the institute&rsquo;s so-called &ldquo;Gold Cities&rdquo; &mdash; a label given to urban centres offering consistently high standards of living.
Education and innovation were named as key pillars of the city&rsquo;s success, with local universities ranked among the top 50 globally and a remarkable 7.37 patents granted per 10,000 residents, highlighting a &ldquo;steady pipeline&rdquo; of new ideas. Singapore also enjoys high digital literacy, with 55 per cent of citizens possessing digital skills and over 63 per cent fluent in a foreign language &mdash; a reflection of its global connectivity.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5922aedd37c841510f2dfeacda8e192a849d48ebf366a5890d88184226a48cc7" />
From a governance standpoint, the city scored highly thanks to its 95.81 per cent voter turnout, its expansive open data ecosystem featuring over 8,000 datasets, and a robust e-governance framework offering digital access to services ranging from online payments to scheduling public appointments.
Singapore&rsquo;s healthcare system also drew praise. The city offers universal medical insurance, a doctor-to-population ratio of 2.8 per 1,000, and an average life expectancy of 83 years. Mental health services are reportedly expanding, with 15 per cent of adults receiving coordinated care.
Mobility and public safety also contributed to Singapore&rsquo;s high standing. All public transport vehicles are accessible to individuals with disabilities, while traffic-related fatalities remain exceptionally low at 0.24 per 10,000 residents. Crime rates are minimal, with only 3.31 cases of public violence per 1,000 residents reported.
Environmentally, the country was noted for having 100 per cent sewage treatment coverage and placing sustainability at the centre of urban planning. However, the index did point out challenges in waste management, despite recent improvements in recycling.
<img src="https://i0.wp.com/media4.giphy.com/media/xTiQyBOIQe5cgiyUPS/giphy.gif?w=780&amp;ssl=1" alt="VIDEO: Using A Ski To Jimmy Car Door Lock - Unofficial Networks" />
TikToker Fires Back: &ldquo;Stress Until You Want to Cry&rdquo;
Despite the glowing report, not every Singaporean is convinced, especially one outspoken TikToker whose fiery video has gone viral across social media platforms. In a scathing monologue, the content creator sarcastically questioned the credibility of the rankings, exclaiming,
&ldquo;Singapore is ranked third happiest city in the world &mdash; knina*, who vote one?! You ask any Singaporean on the street, we all got the same emotion: stress, tired until you want to cry. You call this happy?&rdquo;
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@benwoahh/video/7505432372230507794" data-video-id="7505432372230507794">
<section><a title="@benwoahh" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@benwoahh?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">@benwoahh</a> Knn Singapore is the third happiest country in the world&hellip;my ka chng la&hellip; <a title="benwhoah" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/benwhoah?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#benwhoah</a> <a title="tiktoksg" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/tiktoksg?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#tiktoksg</a> <a title="fyp" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/fyp?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">#fyp</a> <a title="♬ original sound - Benwhoah 2.0" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-Benwhoah-20-7505432414530489089?refer=embed" target="_blank" rel="noopener">♬ original sound - Benwhoah 2.0</a></section>
</blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js"></script>
&nbsp;
His vivid rant highlighted the pressures of everyday life in Singapore, including crowded MRT commutes, relentless work culture, and the struggle to keep up with the rising cost of living.
&ldquo;Everyday my blood pressure break national record. My kchng* (butt) never relax since I was born. Happy is when I sleep 12 hours, when I can touch my CPF, or when my pay go up &mdash; not just GST.&rdquo;
Rounding off with biting sarcasm, he concluded:
&ldquo;If Singapore is third happiest in the world, then I&rsquo;m the first happiest person in the world la siak. Don&rsquo;t gaslight me with happiest country. I&rsquo;m surviving, I&rsquo;m not smiling!&rdquo;
Netizens Weigh In
The video struck a chord with many online. Several commenters chimed in, agreeing with the TikToker&rsquo;s sentiments and questioning whose perspectives were truly being measured in the Happy City Index.
Some speculated the survey results may have leaned heavily on expats or high-income residents, rather than the average Singaporean citizen. Others even went as far as to say that life in Malaysia may be more attainable due to cheaper housing and car ownership.
Here&rsquo;s some of the comments:
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/47a001fc54ccc01ece9384dd76b6b187085f257215efe27640e38b903e68d972" />
Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya Trail Far Behind
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/bbb13fbd4ba9afb8316bc1386413c6284df19d1b89b5dd86485cad9193939a0e" />
While Singapore basked in its third-place glory, its regional neighbours fared significantly worse in the index. Kuala Lumpur was ranked 167th, while Petaling Jaya followed at 183rd out of over 200 cities.
The wide gap in rankings suggests a stark contrast in terms of infrastructure, governance, public services, and overall urban liveability &mdash; although local sentiments in Singapore show that a high rank doesn&rsquo;t necessarily equal high satisfaction on the ground.
As the debate rages on between data and daily realities, one thing is clear: happiness is far more complex than a number on a list.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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#3 in happiness — but still not #1 in food, lah.

fb62e1b27bf1ae84d7fc7226081f9874e727e85d402945cb1a2ecb5e1d09316e

Singapore Ranked One Of The World’s Happiest Cities — But This TikToker Doesn’t Agree

Bolt, the leading European mobility platform, has introduced an innovative Flight Tracking feature aimed at transforming the airport pick-up experience for travellers arriving in Malaysia. Starting today, passengers landing at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminals 1 and 2 can now enjoy a more seamless journey from the runway to their final destination, thanks to Bolt&rsquo;s integration of real-time flight data into its ride-scheduling service.
This new tool empowers users to sync their flight details with their Scheduled Ride on the Bolt app. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, the app will automatically adjust the pick-up time or cancel the ride accordingly&mdash;with no additional cost to the user. The update is designed to reduce stress and eliminate the uncertainty of airport transfers, especially during periods of flight disruption.
How to Use the New Flight Tracking Feature
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/19d132082793cf214f8e67bf7a875e45f575f89e4a75d9188d2be13e673bfec6" />
To take advantage of the Flight Tracking function, users should follow these simple steps within the Bolt app:
<ol>
<li>Open the app and tap on the &lsquo;Schedule&rsquo; button located next to the destination search bar.</li>
<li>Enter KLIA Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 as the pick-up location.</li>
<li>Choose your intended destination.</li>
<li>Select the option to &lsquo;Add Flight Details&rsquo;, where you can enter your flight&rsquo;s landing date, flight number, airline, or departure city to search and select the specific flight.</li>
<li>Choose the preferred waiting time after the flight has landed before being picked up.</li>
</ol>
Once these steps are completed, Bolt will monitor the flight status and automatically revise the ride&rsquo;s pick-up time in case of delays or remove the booking altogether if the flight is cancelled. This real-time adjustment ensures that passengers are not left stranded or charged for missed connections outside their control.
Bolt Strengthens Position as Airport Mobility Leader
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/e479b20a4a58663e609b59ebc8f576ec2faf2052bebc1e4a0978e19f5b2f6913" />
Afzan Lutfi, General Manager of Bolt Malaysia, expressed pride in the company&rsquo;s expanding role in global airport mobility services. &ldquo;Bolt is now an official ride-hailing partner at more than 30 airports around the world, including both KLIA 1 and KLIA 2. Our users can enjoy direct pickups from the Arrivals area without needing to hunt for a designated zone or walk long distances,&rdquo; he said.
&ldquo;With the new Flight Tracking feature for Scheduled Rides, both individual and corporate customers using Bolt Business can now relax knowing that their ground transport is aligned with their flight schedule. If their flight is delayed or cancelled, we&rsquo;ll take care of the adjustments automatically, allowing passengers to spend less time waiting around the airport and enjoy a smoother, more predictable journey&mdash;whether they&rsquo;re travelling during peak holiday seasons or the quieter late-night hours.&rdquo;
Enhanced Scheduling Options for Frequent Flyers
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/12661e1cecca32d8e36eb0a691241d5b200cbd99af651b378bd0897ddc45cbe6" />
The launch of Flight Tracking follows Bolt&rsquo;s previous expansion of its Scheduled Rides booking window, which now allows users to arrange their rides up to 90 days in advance&mdash;a key benefit for business travellers and long-term planners.
Customers also have the flexibility to cancel a Scheduled Ride up to one hour before the arranged time at no cost. Cancellations made less than one hour prior will incur a RM10 late cancellation fee, helping balance flexibility for passengers with fair compensation for drivers.
Bolt continues to refine its Scheduled Rides offerings across international markets, tailoring service categories to local needs and customer habits, making the platform increasingly attractive to both casual travellers and frequent flyers.
Improving the On-the-Ground Airport Experience
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/22bc307bc9792434d66b73445696b856b108f4382d45fa4fb224181984eeef0f" />
As airport transfers represent one of the most common ride types on Bolt&rsquo;s platform, the company is also investing in improving the end-to-end user experience. In addition to Flight Tracking, the Bolt app now includes in-app visual directions, complete with clear photos, to help users locate the designated Bolt pick-up zones at KLIA with ease.
Furthermore, Bolt is working on enhanced airport branding and signage, so passengers can spot Bolt vehicles and pick-up points more readily after disembarking. These measures are intended to simplify navigation within the often complex airport environment and ensure passengers enjoy a stress-free transition from flight to road.
Positioning Bolt as a Leader in Airport Mobility
The introduction of Flight Tracking represents another step in Bolt&rsquo;s commitment to becoming a comprehensive travel partner, not just a point-to-point transport service. By reducing the friction typically associated with post-flight transportation, Bolt hopes to set a new benchmark in convenience, customer service, and technological integration.
As the aviation industry continues to rebound and international travel increases, innovations such as these will be key in building user loyalty and enhancing the experience of ride-hailing services in competitive urban and travel markets.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Delayed flight? Your Bolt pickup time adjusts itself—no need to rebook.

6d764a260380a1b12a54869d7dfe4ed3afc5f22c35a9da9fdb4c96ec42cd88b5

Bolt Introduces Flight Tracking Feature For Smoother Airport Pickups At KLIA

In a decisive move to address rising concerns over youth vaping, the Selangor state government has ordered all local authorities to immediately seize and remove advertisements promoting vape and electronic cigarette products. This directive covers both physical media, such as billboards and shopfront banners, and digital promotions seen on screens or online platforms.
The instruction was issued following a high-level coordination meeting on 16 May, chaired by Selangor&rsquo;s Executive Councillor for Public Health and Environment, Jamaliah Jamaluddin. The session, attended by representatives from the Selangor Health Department, Economic Planning Unit, district health offices, and local councils, was convened to discuss the prospect of a complete ban on vape sales in the state.
Backed by Federal Legislation
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/15413b323cd417bad634a5a6b35c5b08aa2093a6c016a94ecaa234d48e16fc2e" />
Jamaliah stated that the enforcement action aligns with the Control of Smoking Products for Public Health Act 2023 (Act 852), a federal law which expressly prohibits all forms of advertising, sponsorship, and promotional activity for smoking-related products, including e-cigarettes and vapes.
&ldquo;This measure is in line with national legislation and reflects Selangor&rsquo;s commitment to safeguard public health, especially that of our younger generation,&rdquo; she said in an official statement.
The state&rsquo;s decision follows growing public concern about the visibility of vape marketing, particularly near schools and public areas, which critics say normalises the habit among impressionable youth.
Vaping Among Teen Boys Described as &lsquo;Alarming&rsquo;
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/36e393857a8ff512a16debd1b8f85f4c05c8fd3aad70765be529317be714a97c" />
A significant motivator for the crackdown has been the escalating rate of vape use among adolescents. Jamaliah cited findings from the 2022 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), which reported that 14.9% of Malaysian boys aged 13 to 17 are regular vape users.
She described the figure as &ldquo;deeply alarming&rdquo; and warned that it signalled a dangerous trend that, if left unaddressed, could have long-term public health implications.
&ldquo;These statistics are not just numbers; they represent thousands of young lives potentially heading down a path of addiction and health problems,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;We cannot afford to be passive. The time to act is now.&rdquo;
Online Sales Remain a Key Regulatory Challenge
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/5b6523d58626dc71ccf5cd79a82c1fc9ad063fcdbe8568c37503dc143b29e4f7" />
The meeting also addressed enforcement hurdles, including the issue of licensing, legal ambiguities, and surveillance mechanisms. One particularly thorny issue is the proliferation of online vape sales, which continue to bypass traditional regulatory frameworks.
&ldquo;Online platforms have become a primary channel for teenagers to access these products,&rdquo; Jamaliah noted. &ldquo;Regulating this space is challenging, but absolutely necessary.&rdquo;
Discussions explored the feasibility of tracking online vendors, introducing stricter e-commerce regulations, and improving cooperation with federal enforcement bodies.
State Policy Still Under Review
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/519b613c9c2eaa0c156def051f85d7ef03f79f93099fdeda0253807b02040c9a" />
While the removal of vape advertising has begun, the possibility of a full state-wide ban on vape product sales remains under deliberation. The Selangor Public Health Standing Committee is set to hold a follow-up meeting in the coming weeks to assess potential policy pathways. A final proposal will then be submitted to the Selangor State Executive Council for formal consideration.
Jamaliah stressed that any regulatory decision would be made with a strong emphasis on public health outcomes and the long-term welfare of Selangor&rsquo;s population.
&ldquo;Our approach is measured but firm. We are studying all possible implications&mdash;economic, legal, and social&mdash;before proceeding with a final stance on vape sales,&rdquo; she said.
Selangor Joins Growing Movement Among States
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3b7a3b0b8993fee845fbe0b04133f93fa77a2cd31a9d81c372d056251f30899c" />
Selangor&rsquo;s move echoes actions taken in other Malaysian states. Johor and Kelantan banned the sale of vape products in 2016 and 2015, respectively. More recently, Perlis and Terengganu announced their own bans, set to take effect on 1 August 2025. Kedah has opted not to introduce an outright ban, but will instead halt licence renewals for vape-related businesses once current permits expire.
These diverse approaches have sparked debate, particularly among industry players who argue that state-level bans conflict with the regulatory framework established by Act 852, which was intended to manage, not prohibit, the vape industry under federal law.
Call for Collective Responsibility
Despite the legal nuances, Selangor is calling for widespread support to ensure the success of its anti-vape campaign. Jamaliah said that the cooperation of parents, schools, healthcare professionals, and civil society organisations is vital to changing the tide of vape use among teens.
&ldquo;We welcome the active involvement of stakeholders at all levels&mdash;state, federal, and grassroots&mdash;to ensure these measures are effective and enduring,&rdquo; she said. &ldquo;This is not just a government effort. It must be a collective societal responsibility.&rdquo;
The state government maintains that its actions are motivated not by political expediency but by a genuine concern for the well-being of future generations.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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Local councils ordered to remove all vape promotions — is a full ban on the horizon?

fab1f772f40e4a637359579596157f82f1fd2fa640bcf02b3ad1c913d0d7ab2c

Selangor Cracks Down On Vape Advertising Amid Rising Teen Usage

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has launched a newly-designed physical Malaysian driving licence card featuring improved security elements and a refreshed aesthetic meant to symbolise the country's modernisation journey. While the move marks a key milestone in JPJ&rsquo;s broader digital transformation, the physical version of this updated licence is not available to everyone &mdash; at least for now.
Physical Card Limited to Travellers and Foreigners
Beginning 21 May 2025, the new physical driving licence card will only be issued to two categories of individuals:
<ol>
<li>Malaysian citizens who need to drive overseas</li>
<li>Foreign nationals residing in Malaysia renewing their licences</li>
</ol>
All other Malaysians renewing their driving licences will continue to receive only the digital version, accessible through the MyJPJ mobile application.
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/69972bb70a138143da02e6694756a9a9de9dd93692d2c16f1d77c6a6f17a1e33" />
JPJ Director-General Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli explained that the physical licence remains important for international use, particularly in countries that do not yet recognise digital licences.
&ldquo;Singapore accepts digital driving licences, but many countries still require a physical document. So for Malaysians travelling abroad, we advise them to obtain both the physical card and the International Driving Permit (IDP),&rdquo; Aedy said during a press conference at the IM Intensif Driving Institute in Adda Heights, Johor.
Malaysians requesting the physical version will need to present evidence of overseas travel, such as flight tickets or international job assignments, when applying for the card. JPJ officers have been instructed to strictly enforce these eligibility requirements.
Modern Design Reflects Malaysian Identity
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/2af2a7c8cf8d074471251358b462d728c88b52040b45eb0cacf24f206186cf31" />
The new card incorporates design elements that showcase national heritage while embracing modern aesthetics and functionality. The artwork includes:
<ul>
<li>Front Side: A stylised illustration of the Sultan Abdul Samad Building accompanied by dynamic wave motifs, symbolising progress and the flow of traffic.</li>
<li>Back Side: A depiction of the Istana Negara, the Malaysian royal palace, accented with abstract floral patterns reflecting the nation&rsquo;s cultural richness.</li>
</ul>
Beyond the visual overhaul, the card also includes enhanced security features to deter forgery and fraud. It is printed on durable material designed to last up to 10 years under normal use &mdash; a significant improvement over earlier editions, which typically suffered from fading or wear within a few years.
JPJ has already begun issuing the card at selected branches, and it will be rolled out to more locations in phases. Authorities say the staggered implementation will allow for better resource management and ensure the new card&rsquo;s smooth integration into JPJ&rsquo;s systems.
Digital Licence Still the Default
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/055276beb07b75c6efa4e8b92fdc03a1cf6ff3e4657100149205ba437add9019" />
Despite the introduction of the new physical card, JPJ is keen to emphasise that the digital licence remains the default option for Malaysians.
Since its launch in 2023, the digital driving licence accessible through the MyJPJ app has become the standard format for licence renewals, particularly for those who drive solely within Malaysia. Users can download and present the digital licence on their mobile phones during routine police or JPJ checks, replacing the need to carry a plastic card.
Aedy reiterated that the shift toward digital documentation is part of the government&rsquo;s larger effort to modernise and streamline public service delivery.
&ldquo;We are aligning with global trends. Many countries are digitising public services, and Malaysia is no exception. However, we understand that there will always be exceptions, particularly when dealing with cross-border travel,&rdquo; he said.
Reforming Malaysia&rsquo;s Driving Institutions
The new licence launch also ties into a broader reform effort by JPJ to raise standards in Malaysia&rsquo;s 248 registered driving schools and testing institutions. Aedy Fadly outlined three key focus areas for JPJ moving forward:
<ol>
<li> Stricter Guidelines for Establishing Driving Schools </li>
</ol>
<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dd2ca42ccea39009d8cb39f932db22d762d9ac4b13b222a589c0d671af5ad7bb" />
JPJ is reviewing and refining the criteria for setting up new driving institutes, with an emphasis on demand-based placement. The goal is to reduce waiting times and improve access in high-demand regions.
For example, in some densely populated areas like Klang, learners may wait up to three months to complete training due to overbooked facilities. In contrast, institutions like IM Intensif in Johor are able to complete training in as little as one month due to better infrastructure and scheduling efficiency.
<ol start="2">
<li> Digital Testing and Automation </li>
</ol>
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/dbd5e169c9d379738912880fded9accca249f6c2c94f23fcbc29e1b089875d97" />
In line with its digitisation agenda, JPJ is actively promoting the use of e-Testing systems and KPP01 (computer-based) test centres. These technologies are expected to reduce human bias, increase accuracy, and streamline the testing process.
Driving schools are being encouraged to adopt these systems voluntarily, although JPJ may consider making them mandatory in the future depending on nationwide implementation progress.
<ol start="3">
<li> Enforcement and Accountability</li>
</ol>
In recent enforcement exercises, JPJ found serious violations at several driving institutes. Two centres in Johor were caught breaching over 80 regulations, including:
<ul>
<li>Conducting practical lessons without certified instructors (SPIM)</li>
<li>Allowing instructors to handle more students than permitted</li>
<li>Instructors smoking during sessions</li>
<li>Failure to maintain proper logs and training records</li>
</ul>
&ldquo;These are not minor infractions,&rdquo; Aedy warned. &ldquo;Such negligence not only compromises safety but also diminishes public trust in our driving education system.&rdquo;
JPJ has vowed to step up inspections and will not hesitate to suspend or revoke licences of non-compliant institutions.
No Immediate Plans for General Distribution 
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/1576f1302233247e237f3ff639e42bb9185acdcfa3402c679123972220edfe2f" />
For now, JPJ has no plans to distribute the physical licence to all Malaysians. Officials cited cost, redundancy, and international relevance as key reasons for limiting the rollout.
&ldquo;The digital licence is legally valid within Malaysia. There&rsquo;s no urgent need for every motorist to have a plastic card. Unless you're travelling or a foreigner living here, the digital licence is sufficient,&rdquo; Aedy stated.
Those who still wish to obtain a physical card without a valid overseas requirement will be denied under the current policy. However, the department hinted that further policy adjustments could be made in the future depending on public feedback and international developments.
Looking Ahead
The selective rollout of the new driving licence card marks a significant shift in Malaysia&rsquo;s approach to public service delivery. By blending traditional identity markers with modern technology, JPJ aims to streamline operations, uphold legal standards, and cater to the evolving needs of both domestic and international drivers.
Whether future versions of the card will be made available more broadly remains to be seen. But for now, the focus remains on digital transformation, regulatory enforcement, and improving road safety outcomes through better driver education and institutional accountability.
What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments. 
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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New card, bold design, and enhanced security features.

1299da1385c3e3e9b46ca26404f35b040008b8660e768d4d706b5c72cc97eb60

New Malaysian Driving Licence Unveiled – But Only A Select Few Can Get It

A decade after the original Google Glass quietly faded from the public eye, Google is staging a sophisticated comeback in the smart eyewear arena &mdash; this time with a strong focus on fashion, everyday wearability, and AI integration. At its I/O 2025 developer conference, the tech giant unveiled a new wave of smart glasses powered by Android XR, and announced partnerships with major eyewear and technology brands, including Gentle Monster, Warby Parker, Samsung, and Xreal.
With artificial intelligence now at the heart of consumer tech experiences, Google is repositioning its smart eyewear not as a gadget, but as an essential, stylish accessory. The move reflects both lessons learned from the past and the evolving expectations of today&rsquo;s users, where technology must look as good as it performs.
The Gentle Monster Effect: From Seoul Streetwear to Global Runways
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/76c157d44af96b4c72db3e9d109e80ba38c0f0385065455f97da62f1846fd456" />
Much of the buzz surrounding Google&rsquo;s reboot can be credited to its high-profile partnership with Gentle Monster, a South Korean eyewear brand known for its bold, fashion-forward frames. Since its founding in 2011, the brand has cultivated a loyal following among celebrities and fashion influencers. A major turning point came when Jennie from BLACKPINK &mdash; a global K-pop star and fashion icon &mdash; began frequently wearing Gentle Monster glasses, helping catapult the label to international fame.
Gentle Monster is now regarded as a cultural tastemaker, blending avant-garde design with mass appeal. Its popularity among Gen Z and millennials, combined with its collaborations with global stars like Beyonc&eacute; and Kendrick Lamar, make it a natural partner for a tech company trying to break into the fashion world. With this collaboration, Google aims to merge sleek aesthetics with everyday utility, positioning its smart glasses as something people would genuinely want to wear.
From Gadget to Lifestyle: Rethinking Smart Eyewear
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/3be391a4ac7df7456dab015872bd93364bdb3a5b7c2f578db23648c84f1d8bb0" />
Unlike the original Google Glass, which was seen as too futuristic (and invasive) for mainstream adoption, the new Android XR glasses focus on blending into daily life. The glasses, developed in collaboration with brands like Warby Parker and Gentle Monster, will come equipped with microphones, speakers, and cameras, but notably, the in-lens display will be optional.
This means users can interact with Google&rsquo;s AI assistant, Gemini, via voice and sound alone, maintaining a lightweight and discreet design. By removing the necessity of visible displays, Google may be hoping to overcome one of the key psychological barriers that previously deterred users: not wanting to look like they&rsquo;re wearing a piece of tech.
In live demonstrations, these glasses were shown performing tasks like live language translation, hands-free photography, and turn-by-turn directions, all accessible without touching a phone. The focus is on convenience, privacy, and form, with the user experience woven seamlessly into stylish hardware.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UojTvVEFouQ" width="560" height="314" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
AI on Your Face: Gemini Integration and Privacy Promises
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/152b4add261d7f58998eac20c1dff9055323464c92700bea3c2c12c5e48f524e" />
At the heart of the smart glasses is Gemini, Google&rsquo;s next-gen AI assistant, which interprets real-world inputs through voice, audio, and camera feeds. The glasses aim to serve as an interface for Gemini to respond in real-time &mdash; translating signs, describing surroundings, offering contextual suggestions, and more.
Google is also taking steps to address long-standing privacy concerns that haunted the original Glass. One such feature is a visible recording light, which will activate when the glasses&rsquo; camera is in use. Though it may not eliminate all worries about surveillance, it&rsquo;s a clear attempt to be more transparent with the public and users alike.
This entire approach mirrors what Meta has successfully achieved with its Ray-Ban smart glasses, which not only blend technology and style, but also benefit from Ray-Ban&rsquo;s iconic legacy. Since launching in late 2023, Meta has sold over 2 million pairs, bolstered by limited-edition drops and upcoming collaborations with athletic brand Oakley. Google&rsquo;s pivot towards fashionable collaborations signals that it&rsquo;s taking that success seriously &mdash; and hoping to emulate it.
Expanding the Ecosystem: Samsung, Xreal, and Project Aura
&nbsp;<img src="https://r2.myc.my/54effa0ea1f6fcb5ddebfb77b5a0f27274dd5fb0277afb8bcf45b56e4f884b87" />
Beyond fashion, Google is making strategic moves in hardware development. Its ongoing partnership with Samsung has now expanded into the smart eyewear space under Project Moohan, expected to launch later this year. Though few details have been confirmed, it marks a significant milestone in Samsung&rsquo;s transition from XR headsets to eyewear.
Another key player is Xreal, formerly known for its augmented reality headsets. The company has introduced Project Aura, which it says will be the second official Android XR device. Rather than a headset, Project Aura consists of tethered smart glasses with Gemini built in. While details are sparse, Xreal has promised a deeper look during the Augmented World Expo next month &mdash; a sign that Google is working with a wide array of partners to cover all use cases from casual wear to more immersive XR experiences.
Towards a Wearable Future: Merging Tech and Taste
As AI becomes increasingly embedded into everyday life, smart eyewear may become one of the most intuitive ways to access it &mdash; offering convenience, context, and constant availability without pulling out a phone. However, adoption will depend heavily on whether users are willing to actually wear these glasses in public.
That&rsquo;s where partnerships with labels like Gentle Monster and Warby Parker come into play. By turning smart glasses into a desirable fashion item, Google is betting that style will drive acceptance. If done right, Android XR glasses could move from being a tech novelty to a genuine lifestyle product.
The company has yet to confirm an official release date for these glasses, but early demos and partnerships suggest the rollout is well underway. As the lines between fashion, function, and artificial intelligence continue to blur, Google&rsquo;s re-entry into the smart eyewear market might finally stick &mdash; with the help of some very stylish frames.
When these stylish smart glasses finally hit the shelves, will you be adding a pair to your collection? Share your thoughts with us in the comments &mdash; we&rsquo;d love to hear what you think!
&nbsp;
*Sources: Visual and Reference Credits to Social Media &amp; various cross-references for context.
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