Lukewarm Anticipation for Google Glass

June 29, 2013

Why the harsh assessment of Google Glass? We think it is great. Unfortunately, it seems many do not share our opinion (yet). Infopackets reports, “Google Glass Already in Trouble, Survey Finds.” The article cites a study from Bite Interactive:

“A recent survey of 1,000 Americans found that only one in ten people would wear Google Glass technology on a regular basis. The survey, which was carried out by Bite Interactive, found that many Americans feel the device is ‘too socially awkward.’. . .

“‘Google Glass represents a profound social barrier for the average consumer,” noted Joseph Farrell, executive VP of operations at Bite Interactive. (Source: informationweek.com) ‘At best, they see a Glass user as someone who prioritizes information access over a personal connection with others. At worst, they fear social sleights of hand: researching topics, recording video or Googling a person in mid-conversation.'”

I suspect that the social discomfort part will fade away; after all, most of us have adapted (with a good deal of grumbling) to the constant presence of smartphones and the social strains that has brought. I would also submit that ten percent is not bad for expensive, bleeding-edge tech that isn’t even ready for market yet. It seems, though, that the hefty price tag of $1,500 is only part of the issue; almost half of the respondents would have no interest even if the price were to plummet.

For those who are interested, the hands-free camera is the biggest draw. That leads me to suspect that the survey is very premature—we cannot begin to know what the capabilities of this device will be once app developers have had time to tinker. Seeing what they come up with is the part I am most excited about. I suspect that, as apps get added, more and more folks will see something to like in the Glass.

Cynthia Murrell, June 29, 2013

Sponsored by ArnoldIT.com, developer of Augmentext

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