Last year, it has been reported that Google and Apple were working individually to create a “wearable device,” according to The New York Times report. Of course, Google had to come up with its own gadget that would spark a competition with the mobile giant. The search engine company has been teasing the market with Project Glass, a “futuristic computer that would change the way you interact with the world.” But, none of these rumors came into being until the company formally introduced the device last month.
If you’re wondering when you can actually try this device, Google announced that it will hit the shelves next year. A lot of experts were intrigued by the very idea of it and some can’t help but to raise concerns against the wearable gadget. Read on to see the pros and cons of the Project Glass.
Feature-ristic
The Glass is equipped with futuristic features. Since the device is compatible with Android handsets, this will run effortlessly on any Samsung smartphone offered by top mobile networks like O2. But don’t forget to boost your Android phones for high end performance.
Through voice commands, you’re able to take pictures and record videos without the need to touch or swipe a screen. These photos and videos are stored on the 4 GB memory and can be emailed or uploaded to social networking sites. It’s also through voice commanding where you can reply to emails and text messages.
Surfing the Internet is also simplified. If you have the habit of ‘Googling’ things, all you need to do is ask a question and it will give the answers right before your eyes. Google Maps, one of the search giant’s widely-used apps, are also included. You can track down your journey and look up on nearby establishments as well. Live streaming is an added bonus feature. You can show the world what you see right from where you’re standing. The Glass really comes in handy when traveling abroad. It has the ability to translate words or phrases from one language to another.
Hardware and Design
At first look, Google Glass is just like a normal piece of reading glasses. The only difference is that it comes with a built-in camera and microphone. But apart from that, one amazing quality about its design is it can an alternative for a regular eyeglass. The prism display automatically goes dim like an idle desktop computer. You can wake it from hibernation by simply nodding up. Its feather-light weight makes you forget that you are actually wearing it.
Turning the gadget on and off is quite troublesome. The power button is located on the inside portion so you have to remove it first to shut if off. It could have been better if the power button is located in the exterior instead.
Google has taken into consideration to partner with sunglass retailers like RayBan to cater the prescriptions for people who need eyesight corrections.
Privacy Issues and Health Concerns
One thing about it, though, is it tends to be intrusive. Since the device can record events in real time, privacy and technological etiquette are violated. Recording without people realizing it leads to ethical violations that are punishable by law. In fact, there have been campaign movements created to counter the release of the device. One of them is the Stop The Cyborgs. They are fighting “to stop a future in which privacy is impossible and corporate control total.”
Even if Goggle pushes the partnership with RayBan, the amount of radiation risks that could harm the naked eye can’t be denied.
These are just a few initial things that you need to consider if you’re pondering whether to get the Glass next year or not. But think about this: Could they have done it better? Is this the start of hands-free devices?
About the Author
Lily Sommers has a witty knack for writing about technology, future technology, latest updates from industry leaders like Samsung, Microsoft and O2. In her spare time she can always find time for F1 and she’s always available on Google Plus or Twitter.
