Ever since Google first announced that they were working on their Glass project, it has been speculated that many different companies may follow suit and build their own versions of wearable computing. Now, it seems that Microsoft is one of those companies, as new reports from GottaBeMobile indicate that the company is producing their own wearable device, and that it could be ready as soon as next year.
Microsoft, much like Samsung, Apple, and LG, looks like it wishes to join Google in distributing a new type of hardware, aimed at giving users a hands-free smartphone style experience. Microsoft is a natural fit for the technology, as the company's Kinect for the Xbox 360 uses motion-recognition technology to control a player's actions in video games. Microsoft could very well translate that technology into an eyewear-like package quickly, and their head start on the technology could prove to be a major advantage over competitors.
This news comes after Baidu, the largest search engine in China, announced that they were experimenting with their own version of Glass. Meanwhile, Google has announced the winners of the IfIHadGlass contest, where 8,000 people were chosen to gain access to an early version of Glass for $1,500. Winners of the contest included several celebrities such as Neil Patrick Harris and Kevin Smith
While many companies and fans are eager to hop onto the Glass bandwagon, the device is facing some stiff resistance from certain groups. In particular, some are worried about privacy issues associated with people having devices with cameras strapped onto their heads potentially filming them without permission. In addition, some lawmakers are concerned with users using the Glass while driving, and have sought to add the device to texting-while-driving laws. We will have to see if Microsoft is indeed serious about competing with Google, or if this is just a rumor.