Spatial computing demonstrations can be captivating, but integrating these technologies into daily life faces significant challenges. Despite advancements making headsets lighter, wearing a device that encircles your head and obstructs your view of the real world feels disconcerting and potentially unsafe.
For extended reality (XR) to become mainstream, it must resemble ordinary eyewear like glasses. Google is one major tech player striving to disrupt the current landscape.
The company has been exploring the entire XR ecosystem, aiming to go beyond mere headsets. Although Samsung’s Project Moohan garnered attention upon Google’s announcement of its Android XR initiative, Google’s ambitions extend to developing XR capabilities within regular-looking glasses.
Early prototypes are already providing a glimpse into what this future may hold. In April, at the TED Conference in Vancouver, Google showcased its initial Android XR glasses through a public demonstration.
The Android XR lead, Shahram Izadi, wore a prototype that sparked interest. Recently, a developer offered a sneak peek of a companion app designed for these glasses, illustrating some of its settings and features.
This prototype, internally dubbed “Google Martha,” comes equipped with built-in cameras and flaunts a standout feature: “Record your view.” This functionality allows users to capture video from their perspective. With Gemini, the primary assistant for Android XR, these glasses can recognize the user’s environment.
While voice commands play a key role, Gemini’s capabilities lie in visual comprehension—like locating misplaced keys or interpreting diagrams on a page. Despite the advanced technology involved, these smart glasses maintain a sleek and unobtrusive design.
Unlike current bulkier smart glasses, Google’s prototype has clear lenses, allowing natural visibility and eye contact. A small display floats information to the side, ensuring your main view remains free from distractions.
Although still a prototype, “Martha” lays essential groundwork, suggesting that consumer-ready smart glasses are on the horizon.
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