Google appears to be quite annoyed with the myths growing around Glass, so, in order to set the record straight about its wearable device, the company decided to debunk the top 10 Google Glass myths by posting a lengthy address on the Google Glass Google+ page.
The company wants anyone talking about Glass to know that the device is not a tool for mass spying, and it’s turned off by default just like smartphones and other devices. Furthermore, the company says there are far more advanced spying tools rather than glass, which have more sophisticated uses. Google also said that Glass isn’t recording everything, as it’s only supposed to record 10-second videos, and can continuously record only up to 45-minutes of video before the battery dies.
Furthermore, Google will keep a strict eye on MyGlass apps, and won’t allow privacy-invading apps in the store, such as apps that can offer facial recognition features “and other dodgy things.” Thus, Glass does not mark the end of privacy, as it won’t be used to spy on people or to secretly record video or voice.
Google also added that Glass is far from becoming mainstream, with the device only available in the hands of Explorers, who paid $1,500 to get it. The device has seen three hardware updates and nine software updates in 11 months, based on feedback received from users. Despite the expensive price of admittance, Glass isn’t only worn by “technology-worshipping geeks,” the company would like you to know, as there are plenty of other categories of Explorers other than geeks that are using the device.
The device does not cover the eye, as it’s supposed to increase interaction by encouraging users to engage with the world, and only check on Glass when required – in such an instance they would have to look above the right eye, not directly in front. Because of this, and because the screen is off by default, Google says that Glass is not the “ultimate distraction from the real world,” and should not be banned.