While Google takes a low-key approach to the continued development of Google Glass, there are still lots of other head-mounted computer systems. One example is the Jet available from Recon. Marketed for fitness applications, the device is a full-featured computer system.
The system is driven by a 1 GHz dual-core processor backed by 1 GB of SDRAM and an additional 8 GB of Flash memory for storage. It has the usual sensor configuration: 3D accelerometer, gyroscope, and magnetometer. It also has a pressure sensor and an infrared (IR) sensor. It has wireless support for GPS, Bluetooth 4.0, WiFi, and ANT+. It also has a micro USB 2.0 connector. The wide WQVGA display creates a virtual image that looks like a 30-inch screen viewed at a distance of seven feet. The user controls include an optical touch pad that works even when you’re wearing gloves. It also has microphones, an integrated speaker, and a camera that can take videos or still images.
The battery is rated for up to four hours of use, but you can swap in a spare battery if needed. The user interface can detect when you glance down at the display, so it turns on to show you data about your workout. The interface also lets you track nearby friends, and can pair with your smartphone or other devices. The glasses sell direct for $699.
This is clearly a capable platform, based on its published specifications. While it is positioned initially for fitness applications, there’s no reason why it could not be adapted to other health and medical applications, providing real-time monitoring of vital signs for both patients and remote healthcare professionals. Clearly, Google Glass is not the only game in town.
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