Google Glass is Google Inc.'s most interesting device, however, it's still in its pre-release product stage. Still, that hasn't stopped the tech industry fro scrutinizing every single bit of news that comes out of the product's testing stage. The latest news comes from a firmware update that suggests a number of different practical additions coming to the device.
The biggest rumored application to come out in the new firmware update suggests that the Google Glass will have an app store titled "Boutique." This would come as a welcome addition to the Google Glass as it currently has no uniform way of downloading and using applications on the device. Furthermore, there is almost no easy method for app discovery.
Another new feature is the ability to lock the device when not in use with a simple wiping gesture or a code combo. This would work as a means of keeping user data private, something that has raised many concerns amongst those who question the Google Glass' attention to privacy.
According to TechCrunch, new cards are also on the way, which help with the media playback. There's a music player with all the typical playback controls as well as artist and track information. There's a note about a video player as well. Google will deliver audio through the device without ear buds but instead with a bone-conduction speaker.
Most of these changes are essential elements for making the Google Glass competitive on the mobile device market. Most smartphones already have things like a lock feature and an app store. However, by taking a step toward these mobile essentials Google Glass is starting to solidify itself as a tangible and viable device for mobile users.
The Google Glass is headed for a 2014 release date. These features are probably just the start of what needs to happen between now and then in order to take this idea from a prototype to a logical and revolutionary electronic device for consumers.
