Clunky, unstylish eyeglasses or technological revolution? Depends on who you ask.
Google Glass is a full fledged computer with a head mounted display. Its a fascinating concept, but Google has a lot of hoops it needs to jump through before everyone is going to clamor after a pair. An article at news.Cnet.com brings up the necessity of getting more stylish frames and prescription lenses, which Google is reportedly working on with designer Warby Parker. That will go a long way towards moving Google Glass away from the tech obsessed crowd, and into the hands of everyday consumers. If Glass wants to get a place in every household, it needs to keep from getting labeled as a geek-only toy.
Impact on Television
One sector that could benefit from Glass? The struggling television business. Live events, like hockey could revolutionize the viewing experience says ChicagoNow.com. Many providers are already offering mobile viewing options. DirecTv, for example, offers DVR streaming to an iPad app according to How much is Google Glass going to cost? How practical (and sturdy) will it be in everyday life? Currently, the price point for Google Glass is $1,500. Yahoo Finance finds it likely that Glass will lower in price to the $999 and $499 price points over time, but thats still high for many mainstream consumers. Whether it takes off in everyday life depends on how well it can actually improve someones day to day life. Or, if theyll prove so distracting that users walk right into open sewers while using them. Right now, its hard to imagine replacing your smartphone with Glass. Its bulky and requires you to give voice commands constantly. No matter how cool the tech is, do you really want to be that guy? Fred Armisen hilariously portrays the awkward social potential of Glass as Randall Meeks on SNLs Weekend Update.
Google Glass photo from Flickr user Giuseppe Costantino / giuseppe.costantino.
