Bought a pair of Google (GOOGL) Glass when it went on sale to the public last May? You might be disappointed.
Google is teaming up with Intel to debut a new version of Google Glass next year, sources have told the Wall Street Journal. The new version of Glass will be powered by an Intel chip, as opposed to a processor from Texas Instruments, which the device currently uses.
It’s still unclear exactly what the new version of Google Glass will be like, but the WSJ has a few ideas.
According to one of their sources, the new, Intel-powered Glass will seize on the relative success of Glass at Work, and be promoted as a nifty workplace tool.
“Intel plans to promote Glass to companies such as hospital networks and manufacturers, while developing new workplace uses for the device,” the WSJ report said.
We guess Google’s realizing people are hesitant to make it part of their daily wardrobes, given its undeniable dorkiness, potential to cause eye pain, and the fact that it might get you interrogated by the FBI.
The WSJ also isn’t sure which Intel chip the new Glass will use, but they do note there will be an “emphasis on power conservation.” That sounds like a positive improvement; Glass’ abominable battery life has been a major cause for complaint amongst wearers.
As for Intel, the company’s involvement with Google Glass is just the latest of its forays into ~wearables~. Just two weeks ago, we attended a preview event for MICA, Intel’s questionably-useful new smart bracelet launching this month.
Since MICA costs $500 but doesn’t even let you respond to texts, we’re hoping the Google Glass partnership will be a little more exciting.