Google did nothing to sway the tide of public opinion away from feelings of resentment for Google Glass, something it will need to finally do in 2015 to avoid being unseated by a sleeker and more popular rival.
It has been a rough year for Google Glass, though the search engine company has been quick to spin any change viewed negatively by tech analysts. The year 2014 saw the shuttering of Google Glass' physical store, a Glass-less Google leader at a red carpet event and the mainstream usage of the term "Glasshole." Here's a look back on the year the Google Glass team likely wants to forget:
Google Glass Goes Abroad with Little to Write Home About
It was big news when Google Glass was released in Australia and the U.K. in the summer of 2014, despite the smart glasses already being secreted into countries around the world. But with its high price tag, just shy of $1,700, and its ability to record individuals discretely, the derogatory term "Glasshole" came along with Google Glass when it left the States.
Physical Stores Close
In November, Google closed its Google Glass Basecamps. The Basecamps, essentially physical stores and consultation centers, were closed because people found everything they needed online, from products to advice, according to Google.
It may have been the case that potential Glass Explorers and current Glass owners found everything they needed in online stores and forums. Even if it can't be called a setback, the shuttering of the Basecamp stores was another indicator main street wasn't on fire for Google Glass and the messages preached from the physical location failed to maintain a sizable congregation.
All Is Quiet
In the same month Glass Basecamps shut their doors, someone pointed out there hadn't been any news about the smart glasses on the development front for months. The tech world collectively had an "oh, yeah" moment as many analysts had appeared to forget Google Glass was still a thing.
Making matters worse, Google co-founder Sergey Brin attended a red carpet event without Google Glass and claimed to have accidentally left the smart glasses in the car. Previously, Brin could only be found barefaced while on the beach.
Looking Ahead to 2015
A year of stagnation appeared to be ending on a positive note when Google announced it would turn to Intel to provide the processing power for Google Glass. The year 2015 will tell whether the hardware partnership will see Google moving closer to a consumer release of the expensive eyewear or if the agreement was the first step in a hand-off to Intel, which has been looking to make waves in the wearables market.
