Google Glass was an innovative augmented reality (AR) head-mounted display, developed by Google X with the aim of presenting a hands-free smartphone-like experience. Here are some key points about Google Glass:
History and Development
- Conception: The idea for Google Glass was born in 2004, but it was not until 2011 that Google began serious development under the leadership of Babak Parviz, who was the project lead at Google X.
- Project Glass: The project was officially announced in April 2012 with a video titled "Project Glass: One day..." showcasing potential future uses of the device.
- Explorer Edition: In 2013, Google released an "Explorer Edition" for developers and tech enthusiasts in the U.S., priced at $1,500, to gather feedback and refine the product.
Features
- Hardware: Google Glass featured a small display for augmented reality, a touchpad on the side of the frame, a camera, microphone, and speaker. It ran on a modified version of Android.
- Functionality: Users could take pictures, record videos, send messages, get directions, and access information via voice commands with the phrase "OK Glass".
- Connectivity: The device connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth tethering to a smartphone.
Public Perception and Market Performance
- Reception: While initially met with excitement, Google Glass faced significant privacy concerns due to its ability to record video surreptitiously, leading to the term "Glasshole" in popular culture.
- Commercial Challenges: Sales did not meet expectations, and the device was criticized for its high price, limited battery life, and the lack of a clear use case for the general public.
Discontinuation and Legacy
- End of Consumer Sales: In January 2015, Google announced that it would stop selling Google Glass to consumers, shifting focus to enterprise versions.
- Enterprise Edition: Google Glass Enterprise Edition was launched in 2017, targeting businesses with needs for hands-free operation in fields like manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare.
- Legacy: Although the consumer version of Google Glass did not succeed as anticipated, it played a pivotal role in the development of AR technology, setting a foundation for future devices and applications in AR and VR.
Here are some external links for more detailed information:
Related topics: