Google’s smart glasses could make augmented reality mainstream

Tech-savvy consumers who constantly pine for real-life gadgets that mimic the impossible ones wielded nonchalantly in sci-fi flicks, listen up. According to recent gossip, Google is busy developing a sleek pair of futuristic glasses that displays GPS info, sports a built-in camera and runs on Android. Eat your heart out, Geordi La Forge.

The New York Times reports that the high-tech, high-end glasses could be available later this year and will boast features familiar to anyone who owns a smartphone:

The people familiar with the Google glasses said they would be Android-based, and will include a small screen that will sit a few inches from someone’s eye. They will also have a 3G or 4G data connection and a number of sensors including motion and GPS.

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The glasses will have a low-resolution built-in camera that will be able to monitor the world in real time and overlay information about locations, surrounding buildings and friends who might be nearby, according to the Google employees.

Early adopters should start saving up now – or at least make sure they’re extra nice in time for the holidays. The futuristic goggles could cost upward of $600. Those more worried about how they’ll look while wearing them can take solace in the fact they may, at least according to 9to5google editor Seth Weintraub, mimic this design.

Would you buy a pair of Android-powered smart glasses? Let us know in the comment section.