One tip short of being a Google Glass user's 10 commandments, the wearable technology maker rolled out a list of do's and don'ts to guide those who don the $1,500-device on how not to be a Glasshole.
As Google prepares for the commercial launch of Glass, it has been gaining attention from all directions. In January, agents of Homeland Security dragged out a Google explorer from a movie house in Ohio after accusing him of bootlegging the film he was watching. On the flipside of using the gadget, the staff of Virgin Atlantic makes use of the Glass to improve customer service.
"We asked Explorers to think about the situations and conversations that come up when they're wearing Glass. Based on that discussion, we've compiled this list of tips by Explorers, for Explorers. It's a work in progress, just like Glass itself. Thanks to all of our Explorers for contributing - let's keep the conversation going as Glass and the social norms around its use both continue to evolve," the company stated on its official Google Glass Google+ account.
The do's part of the guide is pretty straight forward. Explorers are advised to use the Glass and make most of the experience by having hang outs with friends, utilizing walking directions or updates about a delayed flight. The maker of the wearable gadget also wants users to take advantage of voice commands that can free up one's hands while golfing, cooking or yes, juggling flaming torches.
Another tip stated that an explorer should ask permission of people before using the Glass to take pictures or videos. This is countered with another tip on the don't part of the list so one can avoid being labeled as a glasshole.
"[Don't] Be creepy or rude (aka, a 'Glasshole'). Respect others and if they have questions about Glass don't get snappy. Be polite and explain what Glass does and remember, a quick demo can go a long way. In places where cell phone cameras aren't allowed, the same rules will apply to Glass. If you're asked to turn your phone off, turn Glass off as well. Breaking the rules or being rude will not get businesses excited about Glass and will ruin it for other Explorers," one of the tips read.
One might have a big "duh" in the thought cloud when it comes to the part where Google asks explorers not use the wearable technology while cage fighting or bull riding. Common sense, indeed.
It also does not want Glass users to look weird and read a good volume of literature like "War and Peace" while wearing the device.
The reaction of current users of the Glass was mixed.
"Nice little guide, if a little obvious. One thing I would say is 'all walks of life' is slightly disingenuous, it's currently all walks of life in the US with > $1500 disposable income, which is a slightly smaller set," said one commenter on the Google+ thread.
"I count 50 times being stopped because they want to learn what glass is," added another comment.
While Explorers and Glassholes find out the benefits and repercussions of the wearable technology, the general public is still awaiting its release. One commandment the market knows, if it makes you wait too long, look somewhere else. Meta Pro anyone?
