Google’s head-mounted computer, which has been available to American users since April, has reached British shores as of last week. For £1,000, UK consumers are now able to become an “Explorer” with their own Google Glass headset, and decide for themselves whether or not it really is the future of computing.

There is obviously great potential for this device. Because it is voice activated, it allows you to access a range of features and apps similar to those that you would use on a smartphone without ever needing to use your hands or even move your head to see the screen, which is displayed just in front of the right eye.

For business users, this could mean even easier access to your information and documents, as well as other benefits. You would be able to review business information whilst in your meeting, without appearing distracted by looking down at your laptop, tablet or phone. The device has already been used by surgeons to teach students how to carry out operations, and museums are said to be considering ways of using it to enhance the visitor experience.

However, not all of its functions are so welcome. Although the demonstration video shows that the Google Glass can provide directions, displaying a map as well as providing voice directions, the Department of Transport have already stated that motorists will not be able to use Google Glass whilst driving because it would create an unsafe distraction.

This is not the only criticism of the device; because it can take photos and videos at a voice command, many commentators have raised privacy concerns, and in America its use has already been banned in various locations for this reason.

Many users are also wary of trying the device on an aesthetic basis; it is an odd looking device, and is not yet streamlined enough to be unnoticeable. This, combined with the hefty price tag, means that many who would otherwise be willing to try it out might not be so keen to wear it in public.

We will have to wait to see how well Google Glass is accepted in the UK, however it is certainly a first step towards more natural interfaces which may well be the way of the future.

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