Google Glass, I’m not going to sugar-coat this: you’re ugly. I’d never put them on my face purely due to aesthetic design. The concept and functionality of Google Glass is pretty amazing though, and it seems that a group of engineers from Spain had the same thought. Ion Glasses are the latest alternative to Google Glass, and with a classic wayfarer shape I’m sure many will be on board.
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Ion Glasses are launching through an Indiegogo campaign. They’ve set a goal of $150,000 to complete production, and as of writing they’ve raised $16, 870. For a mere $79, you can also own the prescription-compatible frames for iOS and Android platforms. They allow you to view your smartphone’s notifications, including e-mails, incoming phone calls and text messages, and social media alerts. They also work as a remote control, and have a tracking alert system. With three style options (including sunglasses), the bluetooth system allows you to keep your phone in your pocket or purse, not have to look at the screen, and have your notifications and information before your eyes. The only downside is that Ion Glasses are not photo or video enabled.
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Personally, I think the tracking system is great. My glasses are always on my face, (unless I’m in contacts, of course) but I’m constantly dropping and misplacing my phone. Ion Glasses would allow me to have the things I mainly use my phone for right in front of my eyes, and they’re cute enough that I’d give up the early morning fight with my contacts.
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The wonderful attributes of new technology aside, wearable bluetooth technologies such as Ion Glasses and Google Glass have proven to be disruptive to businesses. Prior to Google Glass launching, many businesses had already banned them. While this is certainly a no-brainer for businesses such as gyms for locker rooms and privacy issues, and concert/sporting venues copyright infringement and piracy, what about the lesser known or thought of businesses? What about the simple issue of distraction?
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Technology distraction is becoming exceptionally more prevelent, and great deals of awreness is being raised. While wearing bluetooth glasses in a meeting won’t cause an injury or fatality like texting and driving can and has, (nor is it of the magnitude) it could be frustrating. Imagine having a room full of colleagues during a meeting you’re holding, but seven out of twenty are wearing bluetooth glasses. While these seven are engaged and giving great feedback for most of the meeting, it is noticeable that the regularly seem distracted and grow quiet due to notifications on their glasses. A phone is easy to put in your pocket and forget about during a meeting, but having alerts directly in front of you can make it much more difficult to step away from and forget about. In fact, it could even make it impossible.
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Image courtesy of Indiegogo.
