Google promises its new smart specs won't give creeps their ideal view
'Intelligent eyewear' has a built-in camera and mic, but there's a recording light to warn you and some stern legalese to discourage abuse
Google has returned to the smart glasses market after previously abandoning its Glass product, vowing to protect user privacy. The company has partnered with Samsung, Warby Parker, and Gentle Monster to manufacture three styles of smart glasses. These devices, unlike most others in the market, do not feature heads-up displays; instead, they include cameras and audio feedback from Google's Gemini AI.
Users can ask Gemini questions about what they see, receive turn-by-turn directions, or use the built-in 12MP camera to take photos or video by pressing a button or speaking a command. Warby Parker and Gentle Monster versions of the glasses come in three different styles and three lens options, with prices starting at $395 and $449 respectively.
Both models promise up to nine hours of battery life, extendable by charging cases. Google reassures consumers that these smart glasses will not contribute to the "glasshole" problem, as it will not use the camera to record or transmit images or videos of individuals without consent. The glasses also do not save camera data or feed it into Gemini's training processes or ad targeting.
However, audio recordings and transcripts will be saved. Google has also implemented measures to protect user privacy, such as face redaction of strangers in transmitted images, and prohibiting apps that use real-time streaming or facial recognition in its Play Store.
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