Since the Google Glass Explorer program first rolled out, participants have complained about the lack of prescription eyewear available for their face-mounted computers. Thankfully for these users, Google announced early last month that it will finally begin offering new options for prescription eyeglass wearers in a move that’s designed to make their face-mounted computers more fashionable, appealing, and–above all–consumer friendly before its mainstream release.
Each pair of frames from the Titanium line will cost $225 each. There are four choices available, which are called: Bold, Thin, Curve, and Split. Though the exterior of the frames is gray, users have a choice of four accent colors for their frames’ interior.
Google also offers three sunglass options at $150 each, which is fairly important considering the fact that UV rays can cause cataracts, macular degeneration, and even vision loss. The three sunglass styles are called: Classic, Active, and Edge.
Google made eye doctors a particularly important part of the Titanium line’s rollout, according to Dr. Stephen Bolick, founder of Eye Care Associates and one of the select few who’s allowed to fit users for prescription pairs of Google Glass. “From our perspective, anyone who wears prescription glasses, you’ll need to have your prescription lenses mounted on the frame to see the display,” he said.
The Glass hardware itself isn’t a prescription lens, and merely attaches to the frames, offering users the ability to take pictures, update social media, and project information like directions, sports scores, or e-mails on a small display. The hardware’s last update was back in October, when Google wanted to make sure that it could properly attach to the new Titanium frames.
Right now, the hardware still makes Glass users stand out. However, the future may bring a more subtle design to Google Glass, which would allow users to be invisible to the untrained eye. Of course, Glass could also offer hardware that’s more distinct, giving users the choice between subtle or obvious looks.
Regardless of the direction that Google Glass takes in the future, offering prescription lenses was definitely a smart move. It’s more important to focus on the current iteration of Glass and how the public will receive it. Google Glass spokesperson Chris Dale said, “I think you need to give the technology a chance to breathe and evolve.”