Do you remember the Compaq Portable? It was the first portable computer that was “IBM compatible” (which primarily meant that it didn’t come from Apple). Compaq sold 53,000 of these devices in 1983 at a retail price of a whopping $3,590 each. Although “portable,” the Compaq was about the size and weight of a typical sewing machine.
Over the next 30 years, the portable computer has evolved into a laptop, notebook, smartphone, and tablet. Early in 2014, the computer is scheduled to make its debut as wearable glasses.
Introducing Google Glass: What is it?
“Google Glass is an attempt to free data,” says James Rivington, reviews editor for TechRadar, “and place it right in front of your eyes. Essentially, Google Glass is a camera, display, touchpad, battery and microphone built into spectacle frames.”
Now that we have raised your curiosity, let’s anticipate and answer some questions you likely have about this revolutionary new device.
Q: A pair of glasses that doesn’t have a keyboard or even a mouse! How can I tell the computer what to do?
A: You tilt your head up or say “okay glass,” then give your voice command. You could say: “Google in what year was Dolly Parton born” or “Give me directions to Disneyworld” or “Send a message to Ted” or “Take a picture” or even “Record a video.” You can also use the touchpad on one arm of the frame.
Q: If I take a picture or record a video, where is the viewfinder?
A: You don’t need one! Google Glass simply sees what you see.
Q: If these are glasses, how can I see what I need to see along with the computer display?
A: Google shows you the display to the upper right of your vision. According to Google, what you will see is “the equivalent of a 25-inch high definition screen from eight feet away.”
Q: For sound, does Google Glass come with earphones or earbuds?
A: According to James Rivington, “Google Glass can also provide sound, with bone-induction technology confirmed. This vibrates your skull, which is more grisly sounding and much less cumbersome than traditional headphones.”
Q: What else is revolutionary about Glass?
A: A wearable computer has the ability to take words spoken to you in another language and to instantaneously show the translated results on the display.
Q: How heavy is Glass, and how expensive?
A: Glass weighs less than the average pair of sunglasses. In fact, Google is considering a partnership with Ray-Ban to produce Glass as sunglasses. An early version of Glass, called Google Glass Explorer, cost $1,500. The consumer versions are expected to be somewhat less expensive and to be available in four colors: Charcoal, Cotton, Shale, Sky, and (for the really cool), Tangerine.
Q: What if I already wear glasses?
A: The Explorer edition can’t be used by people who wear prescription glasses. Google says that this eventually will be possible. In the future, you may be able to simply attach Glass to your normal prescription glasses.
Q: Sounds interesting, but what about privacy concerns with Glass?
A: Right. And to think we are currently worried about protecting individual privacy on social media networks! The ability to photograph or take a video or someone (or something) without their knowledge could be problematic. For instance, Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas has already banned Google Glass since state law forbids the use of recording devices near gambling areas.
Q: Can I see how Google Glass actually works?
A: Sure. You can watch an incredible and captivating two-minute video at www.google.com/glass/start/how-it-feels/