Google is selling the “Explorer” edition of Google Glass in the US, but only for today. Will you be picking one up?
Beginning at 9am EDT today (that’s 2pm BST here in the UK), Google will sell Glass to the public for $1,500 (£897.40) a piece. The one-day sale of the wearable computing device is part of Google’s Glass Explorer program. Buyers will also be able to choose from the new prescription glasses frames, or a sunglasses shade.
Google claims that the reasoning behind the one-day sale is to receive greater feedback on Glass from new Explorers. Google said in a post on Google+ last week: “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.”
Google added: “We’re excited to meet our new Explorers, and we can’t wait to hear your thoughts about Glass.”
Google has also announced that it will add the KitKat software update to Google Glass. This update will bring improved battery life, an updated SDK (software development kit) for developers, and a new photo sharing feature.
This photo sharing feature is similar to Instagram’s photo grid style. Explorers will also be able to share feedback with Google using their voice.
Google said: “Our most exciting update is subtle, but big. [The update] will make Glass more reliable and easier to update in the future.”
One feature disappearing in the KitKat update will be video calling, so new Glass Explorers won’t be able to enjoy the same hands-free calling experience had by longer-standing users. Based on current user habits, it’s been an underused feature with only 10% of the current crop testing it out, so Google has decided to retire the feature until it can live up to the company’s high standards.
What are your thoughts on Glass? Let us know by posting in the comments below.
Leave a Reply