Project Glass, or Google Glass, is currently in the hands of developers as they crank out applications for Google's new head-mounted display. The company originally began to sell early "Explorer" models of Glass to a select group of developers and early adopters during Google I/O back in June for $1500, and said that a consumer version was expected to hit the market in early 2014.
Then just days ago, Google opened up the pre-order program to "creative" individuals who want to be a part of shaping the future of Glass. "We’d love to make everyone an Explorer, but we’re starting off a bit smaller," the company said. "We’re still in the early stages, and while we can’t promise everything will be perfect, we can promise it will be exciting."
The offering seems more like a competition, as Google will select participants based on a 50-word (or less) written application, five pictures, and an optional 15-second video. Having a Twitter and/or a Google Plus account will also be a "plus" (pun intended). The deadline for applications is February 27th.
"If you are chosen, we will reach out to you with an invitation to become a Glass Explorer (please remember to follow us so that we can contact you directly)," Google states. "Explorers will each need to pre-order a Glass Explorer Edition for $1500 plus tax and attend a special pick-up experience, in person, in New York, San Francisco or Los Angeles."
Now a new report has surfaced claiming that the company is aiming to release a "fully polished" Google Glass for consumers before the end of the year, and to price it at less than $1,500. Naturally take this rumor as a grain of salt, as Google hasn't formally introduced a solid price or ship date. But the news stems from a very lengthy hands-on by Joshua Topolsky of The Verge which could have been something that was conveyed in his visit to Google HQ in New York City.
According to the report, the version tested by Topolsky tethered to an Android device or an iPhone via Bluetooth to grab a data connection due to a lack of an integrated cellular radio (likely to reduce the end-cost). However the headset was able to connect to a Wi-Fi network without the need for tethering, and grab its GPS coordinates thanks to an integrated GPS chip.
"It’s clean, elegant, and makes relative sense," he said. "The screen is not disruptive, you do not feel burdened by it. It is there and then it is gone. It’s not shocking. It’s not jarring. It’s just this new thing in your field of vision. And it’s actually pretty cool."
Want it? Yes we do. Now. Click here to see the latest teaser from Google.
