Google has launched a new competition that will allow non-developers to get their hands on the company’s internet-enabled glasses, Google Glass.
These futuristic glasses are enabled with a camera that takes pictures or video with verbal commands allowing you to share what you see hands-free. You can also ask questions, get directions, receive notifications, send messages or translate your voice.
The competition, launched today, will be the first time that those outside of the developer community will be able to access the devices, with 8,000 of them up for grabs.
In order to enter, Google is asking people to say on Twitter and Google+ how they would use the glasses if they were given a set.
Google is asking entrants to tag their ideas, which must be no longer than 50 words, with the hashtag #ifIhadglass. Entrants are also allowed to use up to five photos and a video up to 15 seconds in length.
Applications must be sent before February 27th and Google will award the glasses to the lucky competition winners at a pick-up experience in New York, San Francisco or Los Angeles.
The competition is open anyone over the age of 18 living in the US and will give them the opportunity to try out the glasses before they go on general sale.
While Google hasn’t set an official release date, it’s thought Google Glass could reach general availability at the end of 2014.
Here are the rules:
– Your application must be 50 words or less
– You must include #ifihadglass in your application
– You can include up to 5 photos with your application
– You can include a short video (15 secs max)
– Be sure to follow us on Google+ (+ProjectGlass) or Twitter (@projectglass) so that we can contact you directly
– You must be at least 18 years old and live in the U.S. to apply
– For more details, please see our full Terms and FAQ
You can apply HERE!
The deadline for applications is February 27th. If you are chosen, Google will reach out to you with an invitation to become a Glass Explorer (please remember to follow Google+ (+ProjectGlass) or Twitter (@projectglass) so that they can contact you directly). Explorers will each need to pre-order a Glass Explorer Edition for $1500 plus tax and attend a special pick-up experience, in person, in New York, San Francisco or Los Angeles.