Google Glass has gotten a lot of attention from the moment it was unveiled, starting a quest for millions of curious gadget lovers and a ready ecosystem of features, apps and accessories.  Google Glass has gotten new frames fitted with prescription lenses, it’s own accessory store, and a new wink feature for taking photos. But the etiquette of introducing yet another device into our culture can be a cumbersome process.

Some early Glass Explorers have been treated badly just because they were wearing their connected specs.  One Explorer even got booted out of the theater and interrogated by the feds for suspicions of using his Glass to pirate a movie, which in the end, was proven not to be true.  Some establishments have also banned Glass wearers from entering the premises unless they take the device off.  The main reason for all the heat has something to do with privacy and security, which only stigmatize Explorers as #Glassholes, even if they are not.

Because of all the negativities being thrown at Glass, Google asked some of its long-time Explorers to share some tips in order for new Explorers to enjoy the full potential of the device without turning into a #Glasshole.

Google Glass Commandments

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DO’S

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Explore the world around you.  The whole point of it being on your face is so you can enjoy both the things around you and the information you get from the device.   You don’t have to stoop to get information on your smartphone, as you can get data right in front of your eyes.

Take advantage of the Glass voice commands.  Glass has voice commands so you can do more stuff with your hands.  Think of it like a Bluetooth headset but even better.  You can get recipes from the web, reading while you’re cooking without having to stop to look at a book or your computer.  You can also take a photos of the great meal you’re cooking, from preparation to presentation, without having to whip out your smartphone.

Ask for permission.  You’re wearing a camera on your face but that doesn’t mean you can start taking photos or videos at will.  Just like with a smartphone or camera, there are instances where you need to ask permission before you shoot, or at least notify the people within your frame so they can decide if they would like to step out of the way.

Use screen lock.  Glass is an extension of your smartphone so you better protect it with a passcode just in case it gets stolen or lost.  By protecting your Glass, you’d be sure that no information or data will be stolen as you can remotely wipe all data from the device using the MyGlass page or MyGlass App.

Be an active and vocal member of the Glass Explorer Community.  Share your experience with other Explorers.  This will allow you and others to collaborate, get tips, or even share thoughts on how Glass could be made better for users.

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DON’TS

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Glass-out.  Don’t use Glass to shut out the world by using it to read ebooks when you’re in a social setting.  If you’re worried about people not approaching you because you’re wearing Glass, then don’t hide behind it.  It was designed in a way that users can get burst of information or something that doesn’t require them to look in to the prism for long periods of time, so don’t stare at that small rectangular glass for too long.

It’s also not recommended to wear Glass while doing high-impact sports. Glass is not waterproof nor shockproof, which means its not meant to be worn while you’re engaging in extreme activities, lest you don’t mind ruining a $1,5000 piece of hardware?  Think about it.

Wear it and expect to be ignored.  You’re wearing something that only a few people have, so expect that when people see you using it or even just wearing it, they will approach you and ask about the device, some may even ask if they can try it on.  Be patient with them, as it’s not everyday people will come across with Explorers.  If you don’t want any attention, don’t wear it.

Be creepy or rude (aka, a “Glasshole”).  Simply put, don’t be mean when someone is asking you about Glass; don’t take photos or videos secretly; if you’re asked to remove Glass when inside an establishment, respect the policy and don’t argue with the crew, they’re just doing their job.

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If you want to find out more tips on how not to be a #Glasshole, check out Google Glass Etiquette: Don’t be a #Glasshole.

photo credit: Thomas Hawk via photopin cc