Google Glasses are the way of the future, paired closely with Tylenol. The gadget costs a staggering $1500 and comes with a warning to use it only for ‘micro-interaction.’ The disclaimer was added after consumers frequently complained about eye pain and headaches while using the sleek super-shades.
The way-of-the-future gadget seems to always be in the prototype stage. The problem isn’t a new one. Ever since the invention of the screen, headaches have been an unavoidable effect of long exposure. Looking at anything for an extended period of time is bound to be bad for you. They didn’t add that into the Narcissus Greek myth, but I’m sure even he could use a Tylenol after the first few days of staring at his reflection. With Google Glasses, the headache comes on even faster because you’re staring into what should be your peripheral vision. Peripheral defined: the outer edge of your field-of-sight.
It’s cool, but it’s not natural for our bodies. According to Google’s eye doctor consultant , the eyes need time to adjust to the Google Glasses.
On their site, Google featured some advice:
“When anyone gets a new pair of glasses or starts wearing them for the first time there is always an adjustment period until people get used to them. For some it’s the same with Glass. We encourage Explorers to ease into Glass, just as they would a new pair of glasses. As we note in our Help Center , Glass is designed for micro-interactions, not for staring into the screen, watching Friday night movie marathons or reading ‘War and Peace.’”
When I got my glasses I was told frequent headaches meant I had the wrong prescription, but okay, sure. It’s unclear how or if Google intends to fix the Google Glasses to avoid causing headaches. And, really, it may be impossible to avoid when the micro screen is less than an inch from your eye. Does that mean Google Glasses are a failed venture? Maybe, maybe not. If they weren’t $1500, I’d probably still buy one…
There are other options out there. Now that the word is out that the $1500 Google Glasses only cost $80 in parts , it’s the duty of the consumer to shop around some. Google Glasses might have a patent out for their design, but other gadgets like the GoPro allow for a camera-on-your-head experience. Or, instead of getting a separate camera, your smartphone can be transformed into an action camera . Granted, it’s not as sleek or futuristic-looking. But no headaches!
