The Google Glass has made some buzz during Google I/O 2013 and there are reports that "Prescription Edition" versions of the wearable technology have been spotted showcased by some Google employees during the developers' conference in San Francisco.
Some Googlers were seen walking around the halls at Moscone where the event was held. Google confirmed that the version of the Glass is actually a prototype that the search engine giant has been working on. The prescription version makes use of the same software as the Explorer Edition but with a different exterior configuration.
The titanium band used for the standard Glass is replaced by what appears to be generic plastic frames of regular eyeglasses. The display arm along with other components of the Google Glass is attached to the plastic frame. It looks like that the module is not removable at this stage. The arms of the frame also cannot be folded just like on the standard Glass. Knowing these, the "Prescription Edition" might only be good as secondary glasses because they are not so pocket-friendly.
According to a report on CNET, Mark Shand, an engineer for the Google Glass project, was seen sporting the prescription version of the Google Glass. At least two other employees of Google were seen donning the modified computing eyewear.
"Wearing prescription Google Glass is no harder than [dealing with] sunglasses," explained Adam Haberlach, another Google Glass engineer, who was also spotted wearing the prototype.
There are rumors that eyeglass manufacturers like Warby Parker and Oakley may bring the Google Glass to consumers. Warby Parker is known for marketing affordable sunglasses and eyeglasses while Oakley may integrate the Google Glass module to its protective eyewear offerings.
The Google Glass might be too young to leave the nest of the search engine company but it is slowly gaining ground with a development kit announced during the Google I/O 2013. Another issue to look at will be the possible hefty tag price for a device that might help shape the future. According to a recent poll, only one of 10 Americans who are using smartphones are interested to use the Google Glass on a regular basis.
