Google Glass VS Apple iWatch

The geeks over at Google have been plotting world domination for a while now with the development of their augmented reality headset. Appearing somewhat like a normal pair of glasses, Google Glass will be capable of taking photos, recording videos, Googling on the go, translating your voice, giving directions, showing reminders and live-sharing whatever you see (you may remember spotting them on DVF's runway last September).

Over the last few days Google released this video to demonstrate how this new product will make your sad life worth living:

Google Glass will be fitted with voice command technology, which we can only hope is more effective than Siri, which at times feels like interacting with a well-read stoner:

The Google Glass patent application was filed in August 2011 but has just been made available online. Delving further into how the technology will actually work, the patent outlines how the lens-mounted display will function in relation to the movement of the wearers head to keep the projected image consistent, and how  digital images will be laid over real objects to create augmented reality experiences (meaning you might soon be able to ride a unicorn while sitting at your desk). The most far out bit is a description about a more advanced headset that can project images directly onto your eye. Freaky shit. 

Getting your hands on these babies is not as simple as handing over the $1500. Before the product is released onto the consumer market, Google will be selecting a small group of people — 'Glass Explorers' — to trial the product (amusingly, those selected still have to pay the $1500). If you live in the US and consider yourself a "bold, creative individual" you can learn more about becoming a Google guinea pig here.

Given his inkling for confident eyewear decisions, Bryan Boy will probably be a fan.

Meanwhile, Apple are preparing for their own technology takedown. Slap bands, a fashion accessory made popular by Royal Easter showbags, might soon be given new relevance for the adult world by the company responsible for the greatest invention of all time, the iPhone. Apple has applied for a patent on a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled "wearable accessory device." It will basically be a flexible screen worn around the wrist, hence why it has been unofficially dubbed as an iWatch.

While it will obviously be so much more than a lowly little watch, the exact function of this chameleon device is not yet known. The patent does give us a few clues — it will feature a glass touch screen display and will also act as an input device hinting that it might be designed more to compliment the iPhone than replace it. There is also mention of a virtual keyboard.

If Google Glass delivers what it promises, it sounds like Apple might have a bit of brainstorming to do in order to keep up with the times. It is the year 3000 after all.

Ingrid Kesa