The Google of this week has radicalized tech, fantasized reality, and innovated the Status quo. First, Google announced a superhero Chromebook dubbed the Pixel, and now Glass - their attempt to unite functionality with augmented reality.
To top it off, Google just announced plans to sell the first consumer model of Glass by the end of this year. It's a bit eery considering I just asked you all if 2013 was too early for Google Glass.
Yet, there are people who have automatically written Google's stab at augmented reality off, with no remorse. And this is not okay with me for a few reasons, the main reason being if you had Glass, you would use it. It might sound simple but it's the best argument for wanting it. It's that simple.
Have a look at the Google Glass Experience demo.
I see a number of uses for all age groups. For instance, as a tool in the education system, for vocational practice and training, and as a new avenue for films. Personally, I'm most excited to share my life with the little Chase's someday.
Whether you're into extreme sports, or simply get lost often, Glass will be able to help you.
To those who think it isn't fashionable enough - I challenge you to find yourself without a mirror. But before I rant, the Glass we are seeing will be much different than what we could wear later this year. Google has announced a partnership with Warby Walker, probably in hopes of making us look a bit smarter with Glass on. It will be customizable with separate lenses, but there's no word yet on partnerships with Ray-Ban, or the like. Glass will be launched in colors shale, tangerine, charcoal, cotton, and sky.
The idea being that the colors will evoke fashion statements and the personality of the wearer.
Dance like no one's watching. Sing like no one's listening. And now, look like no one else, with emphasis on "look." As an accessory, Glass might not yet appear normal, but I can envision it as a beauty, maybe even a status symbol, in the not-so-distant future. Could beauty be complimented by Glass? I believe so, and maybe even this year.
To those who think they don't need Glass, you might have a point. Yet, what will happen when you try it? In the Google Glass Experience demo, they show us a couple who are running through the airport late for a flight. The flight information pops up in Glass. It's there, as intrusive as it is avoidable. Let's say you make your flight, and now you're on vacation in a big city. You emerge from the subway into the streets of New York, but you're a tourist, and lost. Say hello to walking directions.
Furthermore, consider your reliance on smartphones already. Do you remember any phone numbers at all? If you have a smartphone in your pocket, you also have a Bag of Holding. Remember, you have a calculator, clock, map, Internet-connectivity, and phone in there.
Where Glass trumps the smartphone is in it's ability to let us live our lives. Staring down in line for coffee, or at a stoplight, is intrusive no matter the reason. Attention and focus on your surroundings is one reason I so desperately advocate accessories like smart watches, and now, Google Glass.
Instead of looking down at your directions behind the wheel, just look up and let Glass guide you.
To those concerned about the price, I'm with you. At the end of the day, Google is a business. As much as I want to believe Glass won't become a status symbol, and that they truly want to carry-on the open-source mentality, Glass won't be cheap. And if they're smart, it will be far from it.
Google confirmed with The Verge that Glass will cost less than $1,500 (the price of the Explorer Edition currently on sale to a select few) which isn't accessible at all. Pair this with the necessity for constant fast internet connectivity, and the bills can add up.
Contrary to the price argument, you could imagine Glass as a tool, rather than a commodity. I understand you won't need to wear Glass all the time. LIkewise, there will be situations when it's position out of the way and on your face will be the best way to remain connected.
For instance, as a tool in the classroom, or the car. I would liken Google's Glass to a hammer, a video camera, or helmet. It's functional...like a phone.
We have seen augmented reality in military-use since as early as 2005, and most recently in heads-up displays in new automobiles.
I believe there is a place for Glass in society as a commodity or tool. And thanks to Google, the choice will be yours later this year, Dear Reader.
I'm interested to hear what you think about Google Glass arriving in 2013. Since no one replied to my previous Glass editorial, now's your chance to share your thoughts on the matter! Are you convinced by my arguments against the appearance, price, and viability in daily use of Google Glass? Let me know how you feel in the comments below…and speak up! Now you have the stage front and center to make a prediction about the success (or failure) of Glass while innovation stares right back at you.
Images via Cloudfront and The Verge.
