Google is relaunching their Google Glass product under the new name ‘Project Aura’. This new project is not to be confused with the similarly named ‘Project Ara’, a modular smartphone that recently faced delays.
When Google Glass first launched, developers and businesses were a buzz over the possibilities, however the product soon ran into trouble. It seemed the general public did not want or need to wear the electronic glasses, and with cinemas, banks and hospitals banning their use, the device seemed less convenient than first planned. The few users willing to shell out the £1000 price tag sometimes complained of headaches and eye strain.
But Google hope to put all that behind them. With wearable technology exploding in popularity, perhaps Google Glass will fare better this time around. They’ve already learnt what not to do, and have had plenty of inspiration to take from, with the Apple Watch and Google’s own Android Wear. Lead electrical engineer for Google Glass, Adrian Wong, who had recently moved to work on the Facebook-owned Oculus, makes his return to Google for the project. ‘Aura’ also gains an injection of new blood, as Business Insider reports Google has hired at least three employees from Lab 126, Amazon’s technology research and development company.
No word yet from Google on how ‘Project Aura’ will take shape, or on its potential release.