According to iDigital Times on Dec. 30, an analysis of a statement made by Google chairman Eric Schmidt points to a release date as early as April 2014. Further indication of Glass’s release into the public was the discovery of the floating barges in San Francisco. The mysterious barges were revealed to be showrooms for newly developed technologies, which absolutely includes Google Glass. The report notes that the plans for the barges appear to be on hiatus, but four months is a long time and that status could change at any moment.
Another indicator of the impending release was the announcement of prescription lenses becoming available as early as January. With prescription lenses the device looks like a standard pair of the now popular large-frame glasses, with a tiny device attached to the front. It’s less futuristic looking, but way more practical for those who prefer the eyewear for their vision needs.
So how will Google Glass do in the new year? That depends on several to-be-determined factors, including price and whether those currently in the Explorer program will have to purchase new units. The price, which is now at $1,500 for the Explorer unit, is expected to drop down to $600. Considering it reportedly costs $210 to produce each unit, this seems like a more fair price, but a still relatively high cost may limit how much success they enjoy with the public.
Those who are early-adopters likely already found their way into the Explorer program, so it will be interesting to see how Google transitions these users into 2014’s version.
With Google Glass, of course, comes the competitors. In 2014, the public will have the benefit of watching to see who can innovate the fastest to make it to the top of the wearable tech market. So far, it looks like Google Glass will be one of the first out the gate, which will likely give it an edge.
via Examiner National Edition Gadgets & Tech Channel Articles http://www.examiner.com/article/google-glass-wearable-tech-may-be-available-to-the-public-april-2014?cid=roadrunner