At Google I/O 2012, the company officially showed its Project Glass to the public. The way it was done, however, is what makes it unique. Google co-founder Sergey Brin interrupted the press conference to inform everyone that a group of skydivers were about to jump out of a plane wearing Google Glass, and that we could watch it from a first-person view thanks to the camera on Glass and Google Hangouts. The demonstration went smoothly, and Brin wrapped up the event by informing developers that they could buy an Explorer Edition for $1500 and it would ship in the first part of 2013. Well, guess what it is. The first part of 2013, and those lucky Google I/O attendees are now receiving and/or picking up their units from Google.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YliQxNIvCts
Just like with every new technology product, Google Glass was unboxed on video by one of the lucky new users. The device comes in a subtle black bag that reads”Glass” and a white, Nexus style box that has details such as the color of the unit on it, as well as an “Explorer Edition” label. Users have the option to choose either slate or charcoal for their color. On the inside of the box is a guide to getting started with Glass. Right on top, though, you’ll find your actual pair of Google Glass. Underneath the actual pair of Glass is a carrying case made of hard plastic. It seems a little cumbersome, but you can live with it. Inside the box is a charger and wall adapter, and as the unboxer points out, the charger is a right angle, making it easy to plug into the device. Further down in the box are extra nose pieces. This user as also got sunglasses and regular glasses to go along with Google Glass, and both come in a protective pouch.
Many people think that wearable computing is the next big thing in the technology industry, but it’s important to realize that we’re still somewhat far away from a widespread consumer launch. Right now, you can’t expect people to shell out $1500 for a version one product, but if Google can make them cheaper and market them well, then there is a good chance they are on to something here.