The looks, like the majority of smartglasses, are challenging. They’re less Google Glass and more 3D specs that come with a 3D TV. However, we don’t think they’re really supposed to be worn all the time, and are designed to augment certain activities or tasks, instead of being an all-day “wearable computer,” like Glass. Why do we say this? Because according to the specification, the battery lasts for just over an hour when using the 3-megapixel camera, or around two-and-a-half hours without the camera.
Both lenses create an augmented reality-style view, so there’s no separate eyepiece attached to the frame. The 419 x 138 pixel, monochrome display is part of the lens setup, so it’s probably not suitable for anyone who needs spectacles to actually see what they’re doing. There is a separate controller that’s linked by a cable to the glasses. It’s used to control the on-screen display, and can be used for voice controls, and to answer calls. It connects to a smartphone using NFC, and at the moment the SmartEyeGlass is compatible with Android 4.4 and later.
Designed primarily for developers at this stage, Sony has released a software development kit for the SmartEyeGlass, but will also publish a few key apps inside the Google Play store for people to try out. These include apps for Twitter, Facebook, and Gmail, plus a calendar and RSS feed app. While the promo video gives an idea of how the SmartEyeGlass will operate for regular people – GPS instructions, instant messaging, and photo sharing – Sony also sees the device being used in industrial and Enterprise environments, where keeping both hands free while working is a big bonus. Google has a similar vision (sorry) for Google Glass.
Right now, the SmartEyeGlass Developer Edition SED-E1, to give it its full title, can be pre-ordered for £520 in the UK, or 670 euros in Germany. In March, Sony will introduced the SmartEyeGlass in the U.S. for $840. At the same time, it’ll release the device in Japan, France, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, and Sweden.
