New smartphones and tablets always create a stir. But let’s be honest: most of them are relatively minor updates. They don’t compare with the launch of an entirely new product category. That’s why there’s so much buzz around Google Glass. You get the sense that it might be something entirely new that changes the game. Today we have more info about Glass, after Google released the tech specs of its upcoming smartglasses.
Display, cameras, audio
The most important part of Glass is its display. Google vividly describes the tiny high-res screen as “the equivalent of a 25-inch high definition screen from eight feet away.” Fair enough.
In the camera department, Glass shoots 5-megapixel stills and 720p videos. Hardly mind-blowing numbers, but it’s always possible Google is using some advanced sensors that transcend its resolution.
Google had already revealed that Glass delivers audio via bone conduction.
Memory, battery, and ... nosepads!
In the storage department, Glass has 16 GB of flash memory, 12 GB of which is usable. You can also sync up with Google cloud storage.
Google estimates a full day’s use out of the battery. It adds, though, that anything involving video recording will drain it faster. No surprise there. When it does come time to charge, Google has its own microUSB cable that will be included.
You were wondering about nosepads, weren't you? Well, you’re in luck: Glass has them. In fact, Google says Glass will fit anyone’s face, and includes some spare nosepads in two sizes to make sure.
GPS, cellular, Companion app
You’ll also need a Bluetooth-enabled smartphone to use Glass (that’s where its cellular connection comes from). Google just released a MyGlass companion app for Android that enables GPS and text messaging. The MyGlass app requires Android 4.0.3 or higher.
Unless you’re one of the lucky few that snagged a pair through Google’s Explorer program, you’ll have to wait until later this year. If Glass is a must-have for you, then you might also want to start setting aside some funds as there’s a good chance that each pair will retail for more than US$1,000.
Source: Google
