It’s been a few years since Google launched their first attempt at augmented reality. Google Glass, despite promising features, was a flop. The constant use of built-in video cameras, the lack of understanding for users. But now the tech company wants to get it right and is experimenting with new possibilities for AR.
In 2014 – that’s how long ago Google’s first attempt was, after the general public wasn’t ready, they came out with an enterprise version in 2019 to convince companies of the benefits of smart glasses. Again, three years later, it is now to go back to the B2C market.
So far, the new project does not have a name yet, but people in the media are pretty sure that the Google Glass name cannot be used any further now. The speculation therefore goes to Pixel, the name they currently use for most of their devices.
Google’s new augmented reality glasses are said to provide subtitles to the world – analog and simultaneous translations are said to be available on the glasses. The AI is also supposed to identify key nearby establishments and announce complementary information about them.
What the corporation has learned since 2014 is to be more careful with built-in cameras. For example, unlike the criticized Google Glass, the new glasses are not supposed to record photos or videos. The built-in camera is only supposed to enable AR functionalities, but not to attack any privacy-critical issues. The stored information is also supposed to be automatically deleted after 30 days.
What is clear from the current information is that Google apparently intends to really please everyone. It remains to be seen whether the perhaps too rigid focus on data protection and user wishes will not mean exactly the opposite.
Currently, the first limited tests of the nameless Smart Glass are running, but when it will come to market and what options and features will be available in the final version, that remains to be seen.
Post picture + video: Google