Google proudly announced that Glass Explorers from all over the US have been actively sharing their experiences when using the device through videos taken with it.  These videos, as well as regular feedback, helps Google to improve the product.  The company has gained so much insight from Explorers that it will be releasing the second version of Google Glass soon.

Based on feedback from Explorers, the team will be updating the device’s software and hardware.  On the hardware side, Google claims that the Google Glass 2 will be usable for those already wearing shades or prescription glasses and that it will include a mono earbud, in place of the bone conduction speaker that is present in the current version of Google Glass.

Explorers need not fret though, as Google will be offering a one-time swap out.  Yes, you read that right.  Owners of the first version of Google Glass can swap their old pair for the new pair when it comes out later this year.  No news yet if these Explorers will have to pay anything to be able to swap their old device, but only those who purchased their Google Glass before October 28, 2013, will be eligible for the one-time swap out.  Once the swap out program begins, Explorers will have 60 days to register for an exchange.  No need to sign up for anything as Google will be notifying Explorers on how to proceed with the swap program.

Aside from the new hardware and swap program, Google also announced that Explorers have a chance to invite three of their friends to join the program, provided they are willing to pay the $1,500 fee that comes with the early ownership of these high-tech spectacles.

Those who have been invited to the Explorer program can order their Google Glass online and have it shipped in their homes or office or wherever they want it shipped.

“We’re counting on you to get Glass to the people you think will make great Explorers. More Explorers means more feedback, and more feedback means better Glass,” the team posted on its Google+ page.

Google did not elaborate on the changes in the software side, but let’s hope it will be something as useful as NTT Docomo’s app that translates written foreign language in real time.  Using the Vusix smart glasses, Docomo paired the device with its language translation app.  So when a wearer looks at something written in foreign language, the translation is made available to him or her in real-time.  Great for people who love traveling to foreign countries, it lessens the chances of getting lost if nothing else :)