(By Rich Bieglmeier) Wearable technology is the rage. Apple (AAPL) is coming out with an iWatch, and yesterday Google (GOOG) unveiled Google Glasses. This author has to admit, the iWatch doesn't make the socks roll up and down. We see it more as an accessory to current technology than shaking up and disrupting the current.
On the other hand, Google's Glasses could change the way we do a lot of things, similar to how the iPhone redefined the cell phone, or LCD and Plasma forever changed TVs. We can go on with examples, but we shan't bore you – feel free to think up your own.
You can watch video for Google Glass here. It's pretty cool.
The glasses allow you to video, take pictures, search the web – using Google, of course – get directions, share pictures and video in real time, translate languages, and more.
How do we see the Google Glasses changing the game?
Since the spectacles work on voice control (maybe mind control will be in version 2.0?), iStock sees the glasses functioning as a hands free SIRI, like the iPhone offers. It wouldn't take much to turn the glasses into a smartphone. Add an earpiece and the appropriate signal technology and bam, call mom, send her flowers from Flowers.com, and chocolates from Godiva, it's mother's day. And, you haven't even lifted a finger or broke stride.
Want to read SAFE HAVEN or watch your favorite movie, put that tablet or e-book reader away; glasses, play A Good Day to Die Hard.
Of course, Google's Glasses, like all new technology will run into legal hurdles, movie theaters, wearing while driving, classrooms, especially during tests… again, we won't bore you with anymore examples. The mischievous side of our brains can probably think of plenty of questionable uses. They'd sure be great in a game of poker!
At first, Google's Glasses won't be cheap. Google is looking for "bold, creative individuals who want to join us and be a part of shaping the future of Glass." Applications must be 50 words or fewer and posted on Twitter and/or Google+.
The deadline is February 27th. If you are bold and creative enough, you'll get an invitation to become a Glass Explorer. "Explorers will each need to pre-order a Glass Explorer Edition for $1500 plus tax and attend a special pick-up experience, in person, in New York, San Francisco or Los Angeles." If that's you, apply here!
At first, iStock expects the cost to limit the number of buyers; however, as acceptance evolves and the price comes down, perhaps due to subsidies like Apple does with the likes of Verizon (VZ) and AT&T (T). However, one the price hits affordability by technology standards, we can envision Google Glasses as the hottest tech "must have" in the next couple of years.
If societal and legal stigma doesn't derail Google Glasses, then iStock can see the eyewear as a potential threat to smartphones, tablets, e-book readers, MP3 players, and the list goes on. Just wait till Google pairs the glasses up with self-driving cars.