As reported on The Verge.
By Chris Welch
There’s been plenty of fierce debate around Google Glass and general etiquette for using the device, and now Google is finally stepping in with its own take. The company has posted a list of do’s and don’ts for participants in its Explorer program. “Our Glass Explorer community, which consists of people from all walks of life, actively participates in shaping the future of Glass,” Google says. But these suggestions don’t necessarily come from Google’s senior leadership; instead, the company says its list of best practices is largely based on feedback from current Explorers.
“BEING RUDE WILL NOT GET BUSINESSES EXCITED ABOUT GLASS…”
Google wants Explorers to harness the power of Glass to help explore and enhance their world. Essentially, it should untangle you from your smartphone. “Glass puts you more in control of your technology and frees you to look up and engage with the world around you rather than look down and be distracted from it,” the webpage reads. In that vein, Google also encourages Explorers to spend less time actually looking at Glass. The company says users should take advantage of Glass’ voice commands to control their device and lock it down with screen lock to prevent anyone from using it without permission. Permission is a major theme of Google’s message; the company clearly wants to shed the creepy factor before Glass launches to the public. “Standing alone in the corner of a room staring at people while recording them through Glass is not going to win you any friends,” Google says.
The company doesn’t shy away from the disparaging “Glasshole” label that’s been bestowed upon some Explorers. Google says all it takes is one person using Glass the wrong way to turn off curious onlookers and business owners. “Breaking the rules or being rude will not get businesses excited about Glass and will ruin it for other Explorers,” Google says. Clearly Google is mindful of the bans against its futuristic headset at some establishments. Instead of creating awkward situations or giving off a bad impression, Google wants its Explorers to be ambassadors of Glass and all its massive potential. “We’re at the start of a long journey,” Google says.