Tim
Each month, Google releases a software update to Google Glass which brings new features, bug fixes, and pretty much makes the device a little bit more functional as an everyday device. As it is now mid December, this will be the last update that Glass owners will see this year, numbered XE12.
In the update, Google has finally brought support for sending and receiving messages via Hangouts to Glass. All you have to do is enable Hangouts Glassware, then update your messaging settings in the MyGlass application. But don’t worry, there’s a whole lot more in the update.
Users can also be extra creepy with this new feature; the ability to take a picture simply by winking your eye. That’s right, no vocal commands need to be given, and the screen doesn’t even need to be on. You’re so sneaky, Google. Please note, you will need the updated Glass hardware (v2) for the wink setting.
Whether it’s capturing an amazing sunset on an evening walk, or photographing your receipt for the lunch you’ll need to expense, you can now stay in the moment and wink to take a picture instantly. If you want to turn it on, just swipe over to Settings.
We’re starting with pictures, but just think about what else is possible. Imagine a day where you’re riding in the back of a cab and you just wink at the meter to pay. You wink at a pair of shoes in a shop window and your size is shipped to your door. You wink at a cookbook recipe and the instructions appear right in front of you – hands-free, no mess, no fuss. Pretty cool, right?
YouTube lovers will be happy to learn that uploading straight from Glass is now also possible – once you’re done recording your viral video, either tap on the video and swipe to the YouTube share card, or say “ok glass, share with YouTube.”
To top it off, a lockscreen has also been added in, allowing you to set up your very own secret handshake with Glass, made up of simple taps and swipes on the touchpad. This should give most owners of Glass a new sense of security if they place their devices down for a bit at their local Starbucks or Barnes & Noble.
If you’re an Explorer, you will undoubtedly want to pick up this update immediately.
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