Want a piece of Google's Glass? The company is now offering consumers a way to get into the Explorer program without the need for an invitation. The cost for the Explorer Edition will still run you $1500 plus tax, so get ready to drain the bank.
According to Google, over the past few months, the company has tried various ways to expand the Explorer program. Some have gained access through a school or university, whereas some were referred by a friend, signed up at Google I/O, and told the company what they would do with Glass via #ifihadglass. Now it's time for something different.
"Our Explorers are moms, bakers, surgeons, rockers, and each new Explorer has brought a new perspective that is making Glass better," reads Google's update. "But every day we get requests from those of you who haven't found a way into the program yet, and we want your feedback too. So in typical Explorer Program fashion, we're trying something new."
Next Tuesday, April 15, at 6am PDT / 9am EDT, Google will be opening up a number of spots on the Glass Explorer Program. This number will be limited, and any adult in the United States will be able to purchase the wearable tech -- now packed with your favorite shade or frame -- from Google right here.
"To discover new places, sometimes we need to leave the map behind. And that's what Glass Explorers do," reads the "how to get one" page. "They are the first to make, to tinker, to create, to shape, and to share through Glass. We're expanding little by little, and experimenting with different ways of bringing new Explorers into the program."
There doesn't seem to be a timeframe for when the sale will end; it will likely come to a close once all the positions are filled. Do you think the $1500 pricetag is still too high? Does Google Glass need to be reduced in price in order to catch the attention of the mainstream consumer? Honestly, $1500 could buy you a decent gaming laptop.
Still, by opening up sales to the general public, Google must be getting close to a retail version. We already know it's making a retail debut this year, possibly this summer. By then, perhaps Google will have knocked $500 off the price tag, making the purchase a bit more palatable.
