Google Glass privacy issues will quickly be overlooked by the general public, a BlackBerry head has predicted, with society set to “adopt and adapt” to the invasive nature of the head-mounted technology.
Having come under fire in recent months for its potentially invasive nature, the camera hosting Google Glass smart glasses is expected to be the focus of Google’s annual Google I/O conference which kicks off in California today. Despite the well voiced public concerns, rival BlackBerry has suggested the public will soon adapt to such personal technologies.
Giving an example of how previously invasive technologies have now become a socially accepted standard, Wood stated: “It’s no longer such a problem when people have mobile phones in the theatre or even just in a restaurant. There is a process of things just becoming normal.”
Speaking specifically on Google Glass, he added: “People want these things to make their lives better but not become weird or unproductive. I think looking at known form factors like glasses or watches, that is a great way to start but I think the goal has to be an integrated product that is simple and elegant and easy to use.”
With campaign groups having recently petitioned against the camera mounted within Google Glass, suggesting personal privacy will be exploited by users of the futuristic eyewear, Wood predicted that the fuss will soon die down and wearable technologies will become not only accepted, but the norm.
While what Wood described as “fit to hand and fit to face” technologies, such as the heavily rumoured Apple iWatch and Google Glass eyewear, are seemingly set to become the next big trend in the tech sector, he suggested that consumer concerns and the ability for users to adapt will have the ultimate say.
He warningly stated: “In the end, consumers vote, that the ultimate design contest.”
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
