To GOOGLE GLASS or not to GLASS?

Question

I got my invite today to join the Google Glass 2.0 "explorers club." I want to do it even though it seems to be an overpriced beta testing relationship that probably benefits Google more than users.  I just love all things that beep, glow and hum!

I usually weigh out the costs/benefits carefully of any piece of equipment I purchase. I usually act very rationally regarding $1,500 expenses that may not return a whole lot to my bottom line. Still . . . I want them!

The most useful Real Estate application for glass appears to be maps and navigation, right in front of your eye. I would use this daily. The hands-free possibilities for call/text phone features would also be convenient as I spend a lot of time in my mobile real estate command center (a.k.a. my car).  The hands-free camera and video would be cool but it's not a part of my current business model of investing. A very useful app in the works will be facial recognition but it's not available yet. Can you imagine being able to instantly be reminded of all your REIA club member's names or real estate agents, etc, just at first glance? That would be huge . . . when it's actually available.

So, I'm on the fence but leaning over . . .

Any thoughts from other investors who love their tech?

Michaela G. · Answer

I can tell you that if I met you in person and you kept google glass on while you're talking to me - I'd leave you standing there. Have done that to a couple of people.

Maybe that's just me, but I refuse to talk to someone that is makes it clear that they are not willing to give me their undivided attention.

Douglas Larson · Answer

Account Closed

Sorry it took so long to get back to you. I did NOT become a "Glasshole" as they call the early adopters. I love gadgets and I keep hearing rumors about great new products coming soon. I've still got my eye on Google Glass but I haven't seen the apps that would make it irresistible at $1500. How about You? have you picked up any awesome new tech?

Account Closed · Answer

@Douglas Larson No new tech yet. I'm watching some of the Google Glass alternatives. I've also been looking into ways to incorporate some of these newer products into applications for clients such as smart watches and smart thermostats among other things.

Account Closed · Answer

@Douglas Larson Did you end up getting Google Glass? I got an invite as well but decided to hold out as there are products coming out that I think will be slightly better initially (looks like normal glasses, prescription lenses, more affordable) although with the pockets that Google has, I'm sure they will improve their product similarly in the future. If you tried it out, I'd love to hear how it went.

Mike Gallagher · Answer

I was reading that some other companies are developing similar items, and it will bring down the cost, they estimate in the 300 to 400 price range. since I wear glasses, im looking forward for it to come out. glass manucturers are ready with the lenses.

Douglas Larson · Answer

Great comments from BP nation!

@Jenna Stonecipher @Michaela Graham @Susan  Gillespie @Liam Goble @Joe Gore @Joel Owens

I am still leaning toward the purchase but some of you have given me pause.
	 
	      I  may be fantasizing a bit on what I think Glass might do for me. So many  techno gadgets have made my life and business more convenient and  productive but Google Glass might not do that… At least not yet. I think  the concept has great promise once the apps are in place.  I'm always  looking for an edge and a new, efficiency tool but I don't really need  another distraction right now. So that's the question . . . is it just  an expensive techie toy or a useful real estate and business tool?

Joel Owens · Answer

It's a cool doo dad. I do not buy things like this.

I think it is not priced for the overall consumer market. I think also you have issues with driving where they will be banned. Right now my 2014 car has it where my phone sincs with my dash computer automatically when i sit in the car and my volume and call control and everything is from the touch of my steering wheel. The sound goes through my speaker system. I do not have to fumble with glasses on my head, finding a button on my ear piece with disconnect issues, or reaching for the center console trying to drive to turn things off.

I believe while outside people should be "in the moment". Attackers will see people in another virtual world as easy prey for crimes and all kinds of things "knockout game" etc. I just do not see this going mainstream and will kind of be like Segways where some use them but not across America. Some companies are working on phones that fold out to various screen sizes and then fit back into your pocket etc.  Lot's of cool stuff out there. Even if it doesn't go mainstream it can spur further discussion of improving or adding on to an existing product in another way.

Account Closed · Answer

If you are in California don't wear the Google glass when you are driving you will get a ticket.

Joe Gore

Liam Goble · Answer

I think it would be awesome because you could make a video of every time you were in one of your units.  When a tenant moves out and there is damage, you could go back through your 'visits' and see if that damage was present or not.  I've got some tenants right now who complain 'the place is just falling down' and they always threaten to move.  The issues they complain about are brought on by their lack of common sense skills (eg: if you get really drunk and decide to smash every bit of cookware on the floor and damage the floor...you as the tenant are responsible for the damage.)

Susan Gillespie · Answer

Go for it!

Like @Jenna Stonecipher said, I also think you should try it and let us know how it goes. I've read mixed reviews about google glass, and the lack of apps, but augmented reality and the internet of things is our future.

There's enormous potential for real estate with this technology. You could use your experience to be a positive influence in the space. Google is a good listener.

And the price? We paid more than that for a tv now selling for $400. That's technology. Google glass is much cooler.

Let us know what you decide. Sounds like you've almost talked yourself into it...

To GOOGLE GLASS or not to GLASS?

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