BY: Sheldon C. Allen Jr.
In today’s society, the world
of technology is always expanding. New devices are being created each
day, however, essentially as each device is created and sold to the
public, it becomes obsolete. Google has been one of the forerunning
companies that are competing in the ever-changing world of
technology. Google is constantly coming up with new and innovative
ideas, to make the world around us easier to live in. A prime example
of this innovation is Google Glass.
Google Glass is Google’s answer to
the rapidly changing and progressive world of smartphones. Created by
Google X, a subdivision of Google, Google Glass are designed as a
pair of lightweight eyeglasses, with a small screen attached that can
display smartphone graphics and can do the same thing as smart
phones, just in a hands-free way, as Google Glass uses voice control.
As new prototypes are being created, new features are being added to
Google Glass, including GPS mapping, MP3 capability, phone calling
capability, text message capability, as well as having a digital
camera included.
Google hopes that Google Glass will
eventually be a replacement for the smartphone. Google Glass is
already in Beta testing, and Google is preparing for a public release
by May of 2014. There are two options when purchasing Google Glass.
Google Glass Explorer costs $1500 USD, and contains more software for
the user to use computer applications on it, such as Microsoft Word,
PowerPoint, and many of the Adobe Design programs. Google Glass
Explorer is not intended for the general public. The general public’s
edition: Google Glass Consumer costs $300-$500 (about the same price
as a high quality smartphones). Google Glass Consumer is more like a
smartphone, although it is easier to use, as it has hands-free
technology. Both versions of Google Glass operate on the Android
operating system.
Google Glass has received much praise,
and was even named “One of the Best Inventions of 2012” by Time
Magazine. Though it has received many accolades, there are still many
concerns associated with Google Glass. Testers to represent those
with hearing disabilities have said that Google Glass is not suitable
for use for those with hearing impairments. Google Glass has also
raised several safety and privacy concerns. Some believe that Google
Glass could be used to spy on people without their knowing.
Though Google Glass is still a new
product, and the kinks are still being worked out, it is a prime
example of how important and pervasive technology is in our society.
Google Glass already has a large amount of buzz surrounding it, so
once it is officially released to the public, depending on the
response, it has the potential to be even bigger than the iPhone.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-y3bEjEVV8 - Explanation of what Glass does
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1uyQZNg2vE - Example of what Glass is like to wear
I think Google glass is a great invention, definitely Google is going in the right direction but i think for $1500 that is pricey for it's functionality however it is a great basis for future development. It reminds of how limited the Ipad 1 was compared to the advances it has made. Google glass will be the same way.
ReplyDeleteI love the idea of the Google Glass! Google will forever change the way technology and life as a whole will be viewed when this is released. I personally feel that this will grow similarly as the iPhone, iPad, and iPod have. I am excited about the future and hope to one day have a Google glass when prices fall!
ReplyDeleteThere are so many applications for this technology. However I think it will be at least another seven years before this tech is affordable for mass market consumption. Until then I certainly will not be buying a set.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoy how Google is always taking things to the next level. I am very excited to see if people will take on the idea of glass, I know I would like to get Google glass for myself one day.
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