Google has made some significant changes to their Google Glass project over the last few months, and now the company has apparently given the project a new name.
According to a recent report, Google Glass is now called Project Aura, and Google has apparently been hiring engineers, project managers, and software developers from Amazon’s Lab126 for the project.
Project Aura: A New Direction for Google Glass
Google’s plan for Project Aura, formerly known as Google Glass, is to get the device used by enterprises. They are currently giving the device to companies in the healthcare, energy, and manufacturing industries. This strategic pivot towards enterprise applications is a significant shift from the original consumer-focused vision of Google Glass.
The original Google Glass retailed for $1,500 and was sold to developers. Google had planned to launch a consumer version, but those plans have been shelved for now as the new device is developed. The high price point and limited functionality of the original Google Glass were significant barriers to widespread consumer adoption. By focusing on enterprise applications, Google aims to leverage the unique capabilities of augmented reality (AR) in professional settings where the technology can provide substantial value.
Enterprise Applications and Industry Impact
In the healthcare industry, for example, Project Aura could be used by surgeons to access patient data and medical records in real-time without having to look away from the operating table. This hands-free access to critical information can improve the efficiency and accuracy of medical procedures. Similarly, in the energy sector, technicians working on complex machinery could use Project Aura to view schematics and diagnostic information directly in their line of sight, reducing the need for physical manuals and improving safety.
In manufacturing, Project Aura can be used for quality control and assembly line management. Workers can receive real-time instructions and updates, ensuring that production processes are followed accurately and efficiently. This can lead to significant improvements in productivity and a reduction in errors.
Google’s decision to hire talent from Amazon’s Lab126, the division responsible for developing Amazon’s hardware products like the Kindle and Echo, indicates a serious commitment to advancing the technology behind Project Aura. These new hires bring a wealth of experience in hardware development and could help Google overcome some of the technical challenges that plagued the original Google Glass.
It will be interesting to see how Google develops Project Aura and whether they can make a Glass-type device that people will actually want to use. The enterprise focus could be a game-changer, as businesses are often more willing to invest in cutting-edge technology that can provide a clear return on investment. However, the ultimate success of Project Aura will depend on Google’s ability to deliver a product that is both functional and user-friendly.
Moreover, the broader implications of Project Aura extend beyond just the enterprise sector. If successful, the technology could eventually trickle down to consumer applications, potentially reigniting interest in AR wearables. For instance, future iterations of Project Aura could be used for navigation, fitness tracking, or even social interactions, blending digital information seamlessly with the real world.
In conclusion, Google’s rebranding of Google Glass to Project Aura and its shift towards enterprise applications represent a significant evolution in the company’s approach to AR technology. By focusing on industries where AR can provide tangible benefits, Google aims to overcome the challenges that hindered the original Google Glass and pave the way for broader adoption of AR wearables in the future.
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