Google Glass Already In Trouble, Survey Finds

Google executive chairman Eric Schmidt recently said his company's Google Glass technology is still a year away. However, a new report indicates that many consumers wouldn't use the device even if it was available right now.

A recent survey of 1,000 Americans found that only one in ten people would wear Google Glass technology on a regular basis. The survey, which was carried out by Bite Interactive, found that many Americans feel the device is "too socially awkward."

SNL Skewers Google Glass

Not helping the situation: a recent "Saturday Night Live" sketch that ridiculed the technology.

The skit, which featured "Portlandia" and former SNL star Fred Armisen, made Google Glass appear extremely awkward to use. Given that millions of people tune into SNL every week, that's hardly the kind of press Google wants for its new device. To view the skit, click here. (Source: theverge.com)

However, the Bite Interactive study reveals that most people probably don't need SNL to help them make a decision about Google Glass.

"Google Glass represents a profound social barrier for the average consumer," noted Joseph Farrell, executive VP of operations at Bite Interactive. (Source: informationweek.com)

"At best, they see a Glass user as someone who prioritizes information access over a personal connection with others. At worst, they fear social sleights of hand: researching topics, recording video or Googling a person in mid-conversation."

$1,500 Price Tag Just Part of the Problem

There may also be concerns about the device's price: $1,500. However, Bite Interactive's study found that, even if Google was to dramatically cut the cost, almost half of all survey respondents still had no interest in using it.

As for that 10 per cent of people who are excited about Google Glass, many said they looked forward to using the device's camera and photography features. Others said they appreciated being given the ability to make hands-free phone calls and instantly record video.

Unfortunately, it doesn't appear many people plan to ditch their smartphones in favor of Google's radical new technology.

"Overall, what Glass offers is a combination of high social rejection with features the average person simply doesn't value over their current smartphone," Farrell said. (Source: informationweek.com)