I have been fortunate to be one of the few users who have been allowed to test out Google Glass over the past 5 months as a Google Glass Explorer. As an insider in the program, I was on the frontline when it came to providing and listening to user feedback. It was only Monday when Google made the announcement that they would be offering a one-time replacement hardware swap to all current Glass explorers to upgrade them to the latest hardware. With the exception of an earpiece and support for corrective eyewear, not much else was reported.
This new version of Glass, we will refer to as Glass 2.0 is likely to have a few other changes. Many of these changes are based out of speculation as they are crafted directly from user feedback. Glass 2.0 is likely to be the final consumer edition however this has not been confirmed.
Android Upgrade
Google Glass currently runs on Android 4.0 (Iced Cream Sandwich for you history buffs). This build is ancient by today’s standards and it is shocking to see it running on Glass as it is practically a Nexus. Although this has not been confirmed by Google, there are many hints below to support this theory.
Better Battery Life
Although Google reports that Glass can get users through a “typical day” of use, real world testing makes this claim fall short. I often have to charge my Glass at least twice a day. You can always tell a Glass Explorer from the average person as we normally carry at least one USB battery pack in our pockets, exceptions are made for those who play Ingress. Glass may see a bump from Android 4.0 to 4.3 (or even 4.4) which should help to improve the battery. Glass 2.0 could also use a better chipset with better power management.
Physical Earpiece
This is likely the most noticeable change between Glass and Glass 2.0. Glass 2.0 will feature a mono earpiece that will allow users to move away from the Bone Conduction Headset. The Bone Conduction Headset is a good idea in principle however it falls short in actual use so the mono earpiece is a welcomed addition. The earpiece simply connects to the MicroUSB port on Glass.
The introduction of the USB headset does further support the Android Upgrade as USB Audio Support was first introduced in Android 4.1 and Glass currently runs Android 4.0. The only other option is that Glass 2.0 contains new circuitry to allow the USB port to act as an Analog Audio Port.
Build Improvements
From what we can tell, the physical appearance of Glass 2.0 has not changed much. This does not mean that Glass 2.0 won’t see any reinforcements in areas that are prone to breakage. Many Glass explorers are hoping for better weatherproofing as well.
Lense Improvements
Thanks to the listing for the “Clear Shield” on the new Online Glass Store, it seems that Google is making some changes to the bridge of Glass. This is likely to accommodate those who wear corrective lenses.
If these improvements happen, I would be fairly confident in saying that Glass will be ready to the mass market.