Google Glass’ ‘Curve’ Frame
When the strange-looking, futuristic Google Glass started popping up on the faces of our peers, we were curious, but couldn’t imagine wearing the device without attracting awkward looks and uncomfortable stares. Something was missing from Glass – the design lacked the ability to blend in with the crowd. Google Glass lead designer Isabelle Olsson spoke with Fast Company about the decision to make the piece of wearable technology… well, more wearable.
Despite an unbelievably enthusiastic embrace from the likes of Vogue and Diane Von Furstenberg, Google Glass has, up until this point, had a bit of a fashion problem, with brave wearers getting saddled with the unflattering nickname “Glasshole” for their blatant cyborg vibe. The prospect of public shaming doesn’t do much to persuade those on the fence about wearing Glass to opt for an accessory that evokes such strong reactions. For the less evangelical, the headgear looks too odd to even consider wearing in public.
One of the biggest deterrents for even tech-inclined people of the original device is that it stands out too much.
Olsson explained how simplicity and minimalism played a key role in the design of the new frames:
“There’s so many things that are overwhelming about our lives, especially technology,” she explained. “I think it’s our duty to simplify things, not to overwhelm people, not to add things, not to complicate things.”
The available shapes – Curve, Thin, Split, Bold – were designed to appeal to every type of Glass wearer. Now that the design problem is solved, the fashion-forward individuals who would rather blend in than stand out may find comfort in the new options. Wearable technology is the future and if it is to succeed, design proves to be of the utmost importance.
Read the article here.
