Earlier this week, Google released a video of their newest innovation currently dubbed the "Google Glasses". Under the title of Project Glass, the global search engine company plans to create a wearable device which places a virtual screen in front of your eyes and, by using voice command, allow the wearer to take photos, converse through video chatting, and act as a GPS, your clock, your phone, weather forecaster, date book, and everything else their Android is capable of.
This is the latest foray into 'augmented reality' technology. According to its Wiki page, this tech utilizes 'computer generated sensory input' from your smartphone, tablet, or other such devices and overlays it upon 'reality', to be able to, say, give you your exact location, give you suggestions on wear to purchase the item you're looking at, or even place in CGI animations or games into your surroundings. This allows for certain advertisers to place in extra information only accessible by your smartphone, for instant translation of any language into the user's own, or for interesting treasure hunts.
The potential for augmented reality is nearly endless as the technology become more advanced. Police or military may be able to instantly ID anyone, alerting them to any criminal or dangerous personas, or to be able to 'see out' from anyone else with similar devices. On a more artistic bent, one may be able to create entire paintings or 3D sculptures that can only be seen and interacted with through the lens of your device.
Of course, there's already a groan rising among those who feel this will lead to bigger headaches and problems than 'sidewalk texters' who walk into people and buildings because they're too busy staring at their screens. This is exemplified in one blogger's reactionary fake commercial for the Google Glasses. In addition, one wonders if these glasses will run into legal troubles when it comes to driving.
Regardless, it'll be an interesting conundrum when you won't be sure if your friend is looking you in the eye and telling you the truth, or watching Youtube.
Please login to post.