Do you remember Google Glass? Well, not too many people do. And for those who do remember, the memories aren’t good ones. In fact, I don’t think Google wants to remember Google Glass. But Apple might invest in digital glass. Let’s go to the rumor mill: Will Apple invest in digital glasses?
Keep in mind, this is very early in the exploration phase. The glasses would connect to iPhones and iPod Touches only (keep in mind this is an Apple device). Also, it would show images and information while the wearer bears on the glasses. It’s kind of similar to what virtual reality does now. Rumor has it Apple is talking with suppliers. Furthermore, they’re ordering eye displays for testing. Let’s say the tests are successful. If they are, then we can see public display and promotion in 2018. But that’s best case scenario. When asked, Apple employees didn’t comment.
But Tim Cook’s company is somewhat in a peculiar phase. The iPhone sales are disappointing. Many tech insiders complain about the lack of new, revolutionary products. Cook sees the success of Pokemon Go and VR headsets. He studies augmented reality, or as it’s more commonly known, AR. Cook says Apple invests a lot in AR technology. Could AR glasses be the break Apple needs?
With all due respect Tim Cook, I don’t think so. Remember why Google Glass hardly sold? First of all, it was an invasion of privacy. With Google Glass, you took a picture with your eyelash. That alone opens up a lot of privacy abuse issues? Plus, Glass was expensive and exclusive. If Apple wants to invest in AR technology or VR technology, then invest in VR headsets. They are so much more successful that Google Glass ever was. I get Tim Cook wants to build the next revolutionary tech thing. But please, don’t go digital glass. It was a failure for Google. It will probably be a failure for Apple as well. How should Apple invest in AR and VR technology?