Google has posted another preview video of its Google Glass project, showing more details of the wearable headset's user interface and capabilities.
Based on the latest video, the Google Glass UI relies heavily on voice-control. Users can take voice-controlled photos and videos, send and receive onscreen directions, search the Web and get onscreen translation support.
Developer preview versions of Google Glass are already available for $1 500, and Google has previously said it aims to officially launch the product in early 2014.
Google Glass connects to the Internet by being paired via WiFi or Bluetooth to the user's cellphone. Apart from responding to voice commands, they also respond when the frame is touched or when the head moves. Google Glass currently connects to existing Google services, such as Google Maps, Google Now and Google Hangouts, and other services are expected to be incorporated in due course.
Google is also reportedly in negotiations with eyewear start-up, Warby Parker, over a possible partnership to make the Google Glass frames more fashionable. The wearability of the headset has been noted as one of the biggest challenges for Google, as it attempts to push wearable computing into the mainstream consumer space.
By the current design, the Google Glass frames do not have lenses, but Google has been experimenting with adding sunglasses and prescription lenses. The display itself is a small screen fitted to the frames over the right eye.
Google first went public with the Google Glass Project in April last year, and invited public participation. At the time, World Wide Worx MD Arthur Goldstuck noted that Google would face a challenge in making Google glasses wearable.
"The Google glasses will have to offer a wide range of styles, as well as overcome resistance to wearing something that looks overtly like a contraption. Aside from card-carrying proud-to-be-nerd geeks, no one wants to look like a cyborg."
Expanding reach
The video accompanied an announcement by Google that it will be expanding its pre-order programme, with a 'Glass Explorer Programme' in the US. Google says: "We're looking for bold, creative individuals who want to join us and be a part of shaping the future of Glass. Glass is still in the early stages, so we expect there will be some twists and turns along the way. While we can't promise everything will be perfect, we can promise it will be exciting."
Google says those who are interested must tell them what they would do if they had Google Glass, by using the hashtag #ifihadglass on Google+ or Twitter. Applications are to be 50 words or less, can include up to five photos, and a short video. The deadline for applications is 27 February, and those who are selected will need to pre-order a Glass Explorer Edition for $1 500 and attend a pick-up 'experience' in person in New York, San Francisco or Los Angeles.
Many Google fans from around the world expressed their disappointment at not being able to apply for the Glass Explorer Programme. Google responded saying: "To all of our fans living outside the US: thanks for talking to us, and we hear you. We know some of you are frustrated that you can't apply for the Glass Explorer Programme, and we're sorry. We have some logistical and regulatory limitations right now, but we hope to make Glass more widely available in the future."
The update on Google Glass follows weeks of ramped up speculation around the development of wearable computing devices from the likes of Apple and now even Samsung. Apple is said to be past the experimentation phase in the development of a curved-glass 'iWatch', while screenshots of the interface of a supposed smart watch from Samsung have also emerged.
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