Google Glass

The World Through Glass - Amazing to Mundane

[sifytech]

Wearable frenzy - Fit or Fad?

"I do believe that wearables are here to stay, and it is only a matter of time before they are integrated into contact lenses," says Uma. Read More. https://www.sify.com/iot/wearable-frenzy-fit-or-fad/

[petepetepete]

Google Glass: the height of fashion for people who absolutely hate fashion. #googleglass #museumoffailure #comefailwithus (at Hollywood)

[googleglass]

Google Glass Commercial Release Nearing as TOS Changes With Removal Of ‘Beta’ Section

Google Glass has had some ups and downs while they’ve been in the beta stages. Due to the very long, and very public testing phases of Glass, many have been concerned about when Glass will be released commercially. We may be very close to that day though, or at least some changes to the Terms of Sale (TOS) made by Google suggest the very same.

Just a couple of days before Google’s annual developers conference, was the last time we saw any changes to the TOS. Then Google announced they had a 2GB RAM version of Glass. The TOS have been changed once more, as of August 19th, and the new language is very small, but enough to suggest that sales are just around the corner. Some of the areas changed in the new TOS cover “Prices and Taxes”, “Device Features Outside of Google’s Control” and “Beta Product”.

According to the new TOS, the section that covers beta information. In this section, those who owned beta devices, also known as “Explorers”, could find the following information: “Glass is in beta, and your testing and feedback are an important part of the Explorer program.By participating, you acknowledge that implementation of some Glass features and services are still under development and that you should not rely on the device, software, or Glass services having full functionality of a consumer release.” Now, that entire section is gone, there’s no more beta section to the TOS. This is one of the biggest signs of the release date closing in that the new TOS has to offer. In fact, the word “beta” is nowhere to be found anywhere in the new TOS. Though there are more interesting changes that add to the belief, like the new “Prices and Taxes” section of the TOS.

The new “Prices and Taxes” section is similar to the old one, however some wording has been changed even though it essentially is saying the same thing. These changes were more than likely made for legal reasons that accompany a commercial release of the product. Though there are now two paragraphs that cover some aspects that were never mentioned before. Google acknowledges the possibility of price changes, credits, and promotional offers. “Should Google reduce its price on any Device within 30 days from the date you order it, you must contact Glass Support within 30 days of the price change to request a refund or credit for the difference between the price you were charged and the reduced price.” The second paragraph that has been added continues to cover the possibility of promotional pricing. “Google may also provide promotional offers or prices related to the sale of Devices. If so, any terms applicable to such promotional offers or prices will control in the event of a conflict with these Terms.” This could be the first time that Google has mentioned anything about price reductions on Glass, and how to work around them. Instead, the price has been steady at $1500 for explorers to get their hands on Glass devices. Google turning the idea into legal terms, doesn’t mean that the price will for sure be reduced at time of launch. Instead, it just covers the idea of possible sales and promotions as well as a possible price reduction. The last addition to the new TOS covers some information in regards to cellular features.

It’s not uncommon knowledge that Google Glass currently doesn’t offer any cellular features. Meaning in order to use Glass to it’s full potential, they must be tethered to a smartphone via Bluetooth. However, the new language suggests that Google may decide to sell Glass through wireless carriers in the future. Google’s new language uses the word “Device” plenty of times in this new section, when they do, they are referring to Glass. “If your Device requires a SIM card, or any other mobile connectivity feature required by your Wireless Carrier or Internet Service Provider, you are solely responsible for obtaining such connectivity feature(s). If your Device includes WiFi functionality that allows you to access the Internet, you understand that you will need access to an 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi access point.” The next paragraph speaks to the services that may be possible through a wireless carrier. “You agree that, unless specifically provided in any Device description page, Google has no responsibility for the provision of cellular data services, wireless services, or the terms under which Wireless Carriers or Internet Service Providers may offer those services. Internet Service Providers and Wireless Carriers may charge you for usage and other fees that Google does not control.”

While these changes may suggest the commercial release of Google Glass is nearing, they don’t ensure that release. Instead, the changes only show that Google is working on that release. In May of 2014, Sergey Brin said he had his doubts that Glass would release in 2014. Though we’re in the last half of 2014, and 2015 is just around the corner. It’s more likely that we will see Glass on store shelves (or internet shelves) to purchase in the first half of 2015.

This entry was posted in Android News, Google Glass News.

SOURCE: glassalmanac

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ray Greer Writer

I have been an Android enthusiast since the launch of the original Mytouch on T-Mobile. Since then I have continued to love Android and followed all things Android. We will continue to grow within the Android community, things are always changing growing getting better, and so will we.

http://www.androidheadlines.com/2014/08/google-glass-commercial-release-nearing-as-tos-changes-with-removal-of-beta-section.html

[hurdling-over-life]

Google Glass footage of me hurdling, my friends pole vaulting and throwing the hammer.

[theedeco]

How I feel when I see these sponsored boxes on tumblr. 

[hurdling-over-life]

Google Glass footage of me hurdling, my friends pole vaulting and throwing the hammer.

[memecenterz]

[hurdling-over-life]

Hurdle training through google glass!!

[googleglass]

Google Glass Commercial Release Nearing as TOS Changes With Removal Of ‘Beta’ Section

Google Glass has had some ups and downs while they’ve been in the beta stages. Due to the very long, and very public testing phases of Glass, many have been concerned about when Glass will be released commercially. We may be very close to that day though, or at least some changes to the Terms of Sale (TOS) made by Google suggest the very same.

Just a couple of days before Google’s annual developers conference, was the last time we saw any changes to the TOS. Then Google announced they had a 2GB RAM version of Glass. The TOS have been changed once more, as of August 19th, and the new language is very small, but enough to suggest that sales are just around the corner. Some of the areas changed in the new TOS cover “Prices and Taxes”, “Device Features Outside of Google’s Control” and “Beta Product”.

According to the new TOS, the section that covers beta information. In this section, those who owned beta devices, also known as “Explorers”, could find the following information: “Glass is in beta, and your testing and feedback are an important part of the Explorer program.By participating, you acknowledge that implementation of some Glass features and services are still under development and that you should not rely on the device, software, or Glass services having full functionality of a consumer release.” Now, that entire section is gone, there’s no more beta section to the TOS. This is one of the biggest signs of the release date closing in that the new TOS has to offer. In fact, the word “beta” is nowhere to be found anywhere in the new TOS. Though there are more interesting changes that add to the belief, like the new “Prices and Taxes” section of the TOS.

The new “Prices and Taxes” section is similar to the old one, however some wording has been changed even though it essentially is saying the same thing. These changes were more than likely made for legal reasons that accompany a commercial release of the product. Though there are now two paragraphs that cover some aspects that were never mentioned before. Google acknowledges the possibility of price changes, credits, and promotional offers. “Should Google reduce its price on any Device within 30 days from the date you order it, you must contact Glass Support within 30 days of the price change to request a refund or credit for the difference between the price you were charged and the reduced price.” The second paragraph that has been added continues to cover the possibility of promotional pricing. “Google may also provide promotional offers or prices related to the sale of Devices. If so, any terms applicable to such promotional offers or prices will control in the event of a conflict with these Terms.” This could be the first time that Google has mentioned anything about price reductions on Glass, and how to work around them. Instead, the price has been steady at $1500 for explorers to get their hands on Glass devices. Google turning the idea into legal terms, doesn’t mean that the price will for sure be reduced at time of launch. Instead, it just covers the idea of possible sales and promotions as well as a possible price reduction. The last addition to the new TOS covers some information in regards to cellular features.

It’s not uncommon knowledge that Google Glass currently doesn’t offer any cellular features. Meaning in order to use Glass to it’s full potential, they must be tethered to a smartphone via Bluetooth. However, the new language suggests that Google may decide to sell Glass through wireless carriers in the future. Google’s new language uses the word “Device” plenty of times in this new section, when they do, they are referring to Glass. “If your Device requires a SIM card, or any other mobile connectivity feature required by your Wireless Carrier or Internet Service Provider, you are solely responsible for obtaining such connectivity feature(s). If your Device includes WiFi functionality that allows you to access the Internet, you understand that you will need access to an 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi access point.” The next paragraph speaks to the services that may be possible through a wireless carrier. “You agree that, unless specifically provided in any Device description page, Google has no responsibility for the provision of cellular data services, wireless services, or the terms under which Wireless Carriers or Internet Service Providers may offer those services. Internet Service Providers and Wireless Carriers may charge you for usage and other fees that Google does not control.”

While these changes may suggest the commercial release of Google Glass is nearing, they don’t ensure that release. Instead, the changes only show that Google is working on that release. In May of 2014, Sergey Brin said he had his doubts that Glass would release in 2014. Though we’re in the last half of 2014, and 2015 is just around the corner. It’s more likely that we will see Glass on store shelves (or internet shelves) to purchase in the first half of 2015.

This entry was posted in Android News, Google Glass News.

SOURCE: glassalmanac

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Ray Greer Writer

I have been an Android enthusiast since the launch of the original Mytouch on T-Mobile. Since then I have continued to love Android and followed all things Android. We will continue to grow within the Android community, things are always changing growing getting better, and so will we.

http://www.androidheadlines.com/2014/08/google-glass-commercial-release-nearing-as-tos-changes-with-removal-of-beta-section.html

[googleglass]

Explorer Edition upgrades to 2GB of RAM in the US and UK. Is it worth the price now?

Update: Google Glass specs double the RAM to 2GB and it's now available in both the UK and US. Our review reflects these changes.

Google Glass is the controversial wearable that still its sci-looking beta testers turning heads and being peppered with questions a year and a half after the first invites started rolling out to developers. How does it work? What does it feel like? And, of course the inevitable, well, can I try it?

The increasing number of Google Glass invites has led to Project Glass being open to everyone in the US and now the UK, so curious, tech-savvy early adopters can answer most of these questions on their own.

It a little easier to say "yes" to Glass now that it's been upgraded with more memory and new apps that came out in time for Google IO. There's a speedier 2GB of RAM on board instead of 1GB and 12 new apps including Shazam and Live Stream. The Google Glass app list is officially over the 50 apps hump.

But there's one query all prospective Glass owners all struggling with right now at checkout: is Google Glass worth it?

http://www.techradar.com/us/reviews/gadgets/google-glass-1152283/review

[googleglass]

Patent pictures hint at unobtrusive Google Glass design

Google Glass has a bit of an image problem in some circles. While Glass Explorers proudly wear their gear, it's hard to miss the hunk of technology hanging off the side of the glasses. That cyborg kind of look doesn't sit well with people who prefer their wearables to be more on the subtle side. It makes sense Google would be investigating ways to tone down the appearance of Glass.

A patent (US Patent D710,928 S) granted on August 12 to Google and inventors Mitchell Heinrich and Eliot Kim may give us a sneak peek at a possible new design concept for Glass. It's noticeably sleeker and appears to show the display tech hiding inside the frames, rather than proudly standing out in the open.

Heinrich is a Google engineer involved with Project Glass. His website describes his involvement like so: "Early stage mechanical architecture layout. Lead the consumer packaging development for the explorer release. Developed human factors numerical and physical models to fit Glass on as many people as possible. Co-developed the bone conduction audio system including component design and testing. Broad range of low and high fidelity prototype development."

The patent application refers to a "wearable display device" and shows a fairly normal set of Buddy Holly-style glasses. Instead of having the projector hanging off to the side, it appears the display apparatus is tucked into the inside near the hinge on the right side.

There aren't many details that can be gleaned from the patent, but it could point to the eventual arrival of a more accessible look for Glass. People who object to the appearance of the current model would have a lot less to complain about if Google ends up going in this low-key design direction. If you're not a Google Glass fan, would a new look like this change your mind about it?

http://www.cnet.com/news/patent-pictures-hint-at-unobtrusive-google-glass-design/

[googleglass]

  OK Glass, we’re coming to the UK Probably the question we’ve heard more than any other is: when will Glass be available outside the US? Well, we’re starting out by dipping our toes across the pond.  Beginning today, we’re extending our open beta Explorer program to the UK. The world sees the UK as a center (actually, a centre) of innovation. It has produced some of the greatest technology inventors and inventions of the last century, and people on the ground are always excited to explore new products and ideas.   So, if you are here in the UK and fancy a demo, RSVP to try Glass at our London Demo Days on June 27-28th at http://londonthroughglass.splashthat.com/ or join the Explorer Program and get Glass atwww.google.co.uk/glass.  We can’t wait to see you in a few days. In the meantime, get a glimpse of London life #throughglassin this video.

[googleglass]

Experience the DVF Spring 2013 show at New York Fashion Week through the eyes of the people who made it happen—the stylists, the models and Diane von Furstenberg herself. All the footage you see here was filmed using only Google Glass, Google's latest technology that lets you capture moments from a unique, new perspective. See what happens when fashion and technology come together like you've never seen before.

[googleglass]

Today we’re announcing the DVF | Made for Glass collection, a collaboration that brings chic eyewear designs by iconic American fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg to the Glass Explorer Program. These new designs build on the style choices we gave Explorers when we launched the Titanium Collection in January. Starting June 23, you can purchase the collection exclusively on net-a-porter-style and google.com/glass, which includes five new frames and eight new shades to give you even more ways to make Glass your own. At that time, you’ll also be able to purchase the Titanium collection on+MR PORTER.  In 2012, we gave you an insider’s view of the +DVF Spring 2013 runway show with DVF [through Google Glass]. We’re honored to collaborate with her talented team again. Like Diane says, “technology is your best accessory.”

[googleglass]

Kamioke Allows You To Sing Along To Songs via Google Glass

If you are a fan of singing along to your favorite songs, Kamioke might just be the app you are looking for. Developed by Glass Explorers, Sharon Bacani and Mohammad Adib, this turns the Google Glass into a karaoke machine.

As of now, Kamioke is limited to 10 songs and installation is done via sideloading through the Kamioke website which instructs you on the necessary steps. The idea is fairly interesting seeing that if it does take off, it would be possible to conduct a karaoke session whenever and wherever for free. Other potential uses could be ‘multiplayer’ karaoke sessions to pit you against your friends be it remotely or while hanging out. This also hints at the possibility of using Glass for more musical related tasks such as enabling musicians to practice and perform by displaying musical scores or carrying out a full scale performance by a band/orchestra if necessary. This would mean that the Glass doubles up as an in ‘eye’ monitor. Moving back to Kamioke, the only downside lies in the small selection of songs and its capacity to function well in a noisy environment.

Kamioke might just be a sign of things to come from the integration of wearable tech to our daily lives. It could very well be that these wearables would one day be essential to us similar to how smartphones are. For the singers out there, rejoice!  For the rest, you probably want to either keep this app away from tone deaf friends and family members to retain your sanity (I can imagine a scenario where these individuals abuse Kamioke to sing around the clock). Alternatively, a good set of muffs/headphones should help immensely in tuning them out. Fortunately, Google Glass’ high price tag of $1,500 should help keeping Kamioke out of reach for the above mentioned individuals. Assuming they do not have a bucketful of money to throw around.

via: http://www.androidheadlines.com/2014/05/kamioke-allows-sing-along-songs-via-google-glass.html

[googleglass]

via Trey Ratcliff

Mar 16, 2014

Exploring the world with +Google Glass Just recently, I met this gentleman in the wilds beyond the desert. He was so curious and interested in Glass. Absolutely transfixed, he asked me everything about it, then tried it on and played and played and played!  He loved it!   First I had him go through the same demo I give everyone.  I have them say, "Okay Glass, Take a picture" — it understands pretty much every accent around the world as far as I can tell. This always makes people freak out with excitement when they see the photo they just took floating as a hologram in front of their eyes.   Then he started using it more and more, going through all my emails, watching videos, seeing my text messages, asking Google questions, checking weather... I mean it just went on and on and on... and then he started showing all his friends and telling them about it — he was so excited.  Naturally, he was happy for me to take his photo while he was playing! We ended up talking about a bunch of different things.  I even bought an old used knife from him, and he showed me how to stick the curved end of it into a camel's hump to get water in an emergency.  There's another part of the knife you use to seal up the little puncture wound.  Then we talked about mediation, the sealing of the four cardinal spiritual doors in the night before entering the tent, different cultures around the world, and well, about a dozen other things.  Anyway, it was great...

[googleglass]

  In the last year we've seen our Explorers use Glass in really inspiring and practical day-to-day ways. Something we've also noticed and are very excited about is how Explorers are using Glass to drive their businesses forward. A number of companies have already teamed up with enterprise software developers to create new ways to serve their customers and reach their business goals.

The Washington Capitals and Schlumberger are just two of the companies that are at the forefront of exploring new possibilities with Glass. The Washington Capitals partnered with APX Labs to create a fan experience where real time stats, instant replay and different camera angles are all brought directly to Capitals fans via Glass. Schlumberger, the world’s largest oilfield services company, partnered with Wearable Intelligence and is using Glass to increase safety and efficiency for their employees in the field. 

This is only the beginning of what’s possible for Glass and business. If you’re a developer who is creating software for U.S. based enterprises, we’d love your help in building the future of Glass at Work. Get in touch with us here:

https://developers.google.com/glass/distribute/glass-at-work