Sony making Project Glass rival specs, share data by ogling

Sony is working on its own digital glasses to rival Google's Project Glass, according to a patent.

Like Google's specs, a built-in camera captures all your goings-on. What's unique is the ability to share info by looking at someone else wearing the same specs. That's right, to send personal info through transmitters, you have to ogle someone, which could prove a little uncomfortable. Stare to share, anyone? 

But it's not all social awkwardness. The glasses should also be able to pick up info from visual tags on posters, products, websites, and anything else. Like a more advanced form of QR code.

A microphone and speakers hint the glasses could be voice-activated as well, just like Google's Project Glass.

The glasses connect to a watch to share info too -- although the inclusion of this tech is a questionable move as gadget watches have never really taken off. I love the idea of digital specs though. Maybe the 21st century will finally start living up to its promises. 

Google's Project Glass specs layer augmented reality info onto your real world view. Here they are in action. They're Internet-enabled as well, keeping you connected while out and about without having to use your phone. It's early days, with Google saying it'll be a while before they're ready to go on sale. Though some experts doubt they're even practical.

Microsoft is also working on its own digital glasses, revealed by a leaked document. Named Project Fortaleza, they're thought to connect over Wi-Fi and 4G, and are being designed predominantly for use with Kinect gaming. Apparently you'll be able to use them away from the console too though, which sounds far more interesting.

Will digital glasses ever replace mobiles? Or are they just fanciful concepts? Let me know in the comments, or on our Facebook page.

Image credit: Patent Bolt