Google co-founder Sergey Brin revealed one of the features of Google Glass -- the upcoming headset/eyewear device the search giant is developing -- in an email to followers today.
Copying a post he had shared to followers of Project Glass on Google+, Brin said he was trying out a new feature of the product that automatically takes a photo every 10 seconds. Brin said he had the mode engaged while he was driving in Montana, with the device sending all the pics to his Google+ account via instant upload.
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Browsing the images later, Brin picked one he thought best captured the beauty of the Montana landscape. The image has just 512 x 384 resolution -- less than a megapixel -- though that that's probably not an indication of Google Glass's capabilities. It could be an aspect of the auto-photo mode, using lower resolutions so storage isn't taxed that much. Here's the photo:
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In the message, Brin emphasized that Glass allowed him to take pictures as he drove without distraction. He also talked about the vision of Project Glass. "We started Project Glass believing that, by bringing technology closer, we can get it more out of the way," he wrote. "Whether you’re exploring a new city, hiking in the woods, or playing with your kids -- Glass allows you to enjoy and share life’s moments without being tied down by technology."
It appears only attendees of Google I/O who signed up for Google Glass received the email. On the Google+ post, however, Brin encourages followers to leave a comment and provide feedback on the project. He also promises that Google has some "great things" coming the next few months. He'll have a tough time topping his spectacular skydive at the I/O conference.
Although it was first reported Google Glass would go on sale before the end of 2012, Brin himself has said it'll be ready for consumers by 2014. Developers who were interested in receiving one of the prototypes were asked to commit to paying $1,500 for each one, though that figure has no bearing on what the retail price will be.
What do you think of the latest news about Google Glass? Does automatic picture taking sound like a feature you'd use? Share your thoughts in the comments.
BONUS: The Long and Winding Road to a True Heads-Up Display
World War II Origins
The HUD we know today evolved from the reflector sight on German planes in 1937. They allowed targeting assistance to be added to a scope for pilots to more easily aim. Eventually it incorporated displaying information such as air speed velocity and attack angle that made it easier for pilots to hit targets.
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This story originally published on Mashable here.