Google Glass is a wearable device that lets you see web data such as directions and other facts right before you eyes, although most people just equate Google Glass with hands-free video and photography. Now, Google is giving people a chance to be Google Glass Explorers and get Google Glass before the device is available to the public. Just say what you’d do with Google Glass in a Google+ or Twitter post with the hashtag #ifihadglass, and you could selected! (Sorry, no Facebook entries.)
By the way, if selected you need to pay $1500 plus tax for your Google Glass device.
Also, you need to pick them up in New York, Los Angeles or San Francisco, so if you aren’t in one of those places you’d best include airfare and hotel in your Google Glass budget.
Suddenly, this contest doesn’t sound so tempting.
I admit that I was intrigued by the chance to try out Google Glass. I figured I’d throw together my 50 word essay and give it a shot. Then I read the details of the competition. $1500 for a gadget is way outside of my budget right now even if I didn’t have to add the travel expenses. Sadly, my community manager told me that ChicagoNow wouldn’t cover the cost either, so I’m out of luck.
That’s okay.
The concept of Google Glass actually makes me a bit uncomfortable. I’m the sort of person who never wants to be on reality TV. You won’t see me standing behind a news reporter waving. If there is a camera crew on the sidewalk I cross the street. #IfIHadGlass I’d be hesitant to use it in many situations because I don’t want to breach anyone else’s privacy. If you get Google Glass I hope you’ll understand if when I see you coming I cross the street.
Google Glass recording capabilities raise privacy concerns, but the ability to get information hands-free has a lot of exciting an intriguing applications although I’m sure it would take some getting used to. Watch this demo video to get a better understanding of what Google Glass does.
Do you want Google Glass? Would you hang out with someone using Google glass?
For as forward-thinking as Google Glass is, Google didn’t think about the negatives to creating a hashtag-based competition. To understand that hubris read some of the #ifihadglass bashtags here. (I particularly like the one about accidentally recording your PIN when using an ATM. It will happen.)
Let me know your thoughts and concerns about Google Glass in the comments below or on Twitter, Facebook or Google+.
Kim Z. Dale 