Google Glass Gets Battery Life Boost
You can now buy Google Glass -- but today only (Apr. 15) -- for a whopping $1,500. Just in the nick of time, Google has made strides to answer people's biggest complaint: short battery life. Plus, if you're among the lucky few in the Explorer's program you'll notice your Glass will receive some subtle software changes and voice command improvements.
The biggest change Google announced is Glass' improved battery life. A longer-lasting Glass is made possible through the new KitKat for Glass update, which optimizes tasks for reduced battery consumption. The Android update also allows app developers to create Glass apps using Google's latest SDK.
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Google has made several photo improvements to Glass, including a new photo bundle feature that allows you to view more pictures at a single glance. You can also reply to Hangouts messages with a photo, so if a friend asks where you are, you can simply tell them with a quick picture.
Glass's voice command functionality has also been updated to support each user's growing command library. When you say "Ok, Google," you'll now see a list of your most recent and frequent voice commands on your display.
To make way for these new updates, Google has slashed video call functionality. According to the search giant, less than 10 percent of Explorers were using this feature, and many users told Google directly that they weren't satisfied with the quality of their calls. The Glass maker plans to relaunch the feature once the "experience is better," and noted that Glass app developers are working on their own video streaming services.
If you've the cash the spare, you can nab the $1,500 Google Glass today only. Available in Charcoal, Cotton, Tangerine, Shale and Sky, the package includes a cable and charger, single earbud, carrying pouch and your choice of frame.
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