Google Begins Testing on Augmented Reality Glasses

Google Begins Testing on Augmented Reality Glasses

Google Reveals Sci-Fi Worthy Invention That’s Now In Testing

(StraightNews.org) – In 2013, Google tried to get ahead of the technology game when it introduced Glass, a revolutionary pair of smart glasses. Since this came at a time when designers around the world were releasing new multitasking features, the company thought they would be a hit. Unfortunately, they did not take off. It seems Google hasn’t given up, though. It recently revealed its plans to test a new prototype — augmented reality glasses.

Google’s New AR Glasses Revealed

In a blog post dated Tuesday, July 19, Google revealed plans to test its new prototype, which is not a product at the moment. Instead, the company stated, “we want to get this right, so we’re taking it slow.” The AR prototype features in-lens displays as well as cameras and microphones. One of its features will be transcribing and translating in real-time, which Google hopes will improve the way we interact with others, including those who speak another language. One of the company’s employees referred to the translation feature as “subtitles for the world.”

Second Time’s the Charm?

When it comes to technology, companies have no way of knowing if consumers will see their products as popular — or unpopular. They rely on market statistics for the industry as well as consumer demands and try to fill those needs. With Glass, the prospect was exciting, but the product came with a lot of privacy issues, which resulted in its downfall. Because it had a front-facing camera, many were worried it would record them without permission, sparking a lot of backlash. Google originally intended the product for consumers, but following the fallout, the company remarketed it as Project Aura and directed it toward businesses before it did away with the smart glasses altogether.

This time, Google has made privacy a primary concern in its design. The cameras and microphones will have strict limitations, though it’s unclear how those will work. There will be more transparency, though, as an LED light will turn on when the device is recording. Additionally, the cameras and microphones will not record data users can view later. Instead, its main purpose is to help identify objects and to help users navigate, reportedly nothing is saved during use.

Google expects to try the prototype in the real world, escaping the limitations of lab testing, beginning next month. Testers will not wear them in settings where privacy concerns are at play, including churches, protests, government and healthcare buildings, and schools to name a few.

What do you think about the possibilities of AR glasses? Do you welcome the technology or feel it’s too invasive? Reply to your email and let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you!

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