How to Get Access to Google Glass Early: A Comprehensive Guide

Google Glass promises to revolutionize the way we interact with technology by integrating information directly into our line of sight. While it's natural to want to be among the first to experience this innovative product, getting early access can be challenging. Below are several strategies you can use to gain early access to Google Glass.

Understanding the True Value of Google Glass

While Google Glass itself is compelling, much of its potential lies in the applications (apps) and interactions that will run on it. Therefore, if you're a tech-savvy individual with an interest in development, here's a guide to help you secure early access.

For Developers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Google has publicly stated that all apps for Glass will be hosted on the Cloud and accessed via the Mirror API. The company plans to host a series of hack-a-thon events to facilitate the creation of new applications for Glass. Here are some steps to get you started:

1. Prototype Your Apps

Start prototyping your applications on a mobile device of choice using web services. Since you're targeting Google Glass, consider the hardware limitations and advantages of a Heads-Up Display (HUD). Use a Nexus 7 held at arm's length as a reference for the display size. Leverage the live camera video feed as the background image for your app, which will present visual output as an overlay on the signal. Utilize audio features strategically as both an input (e.g., Siri style) and an output (e.g., voice feedback).

2. Publish Your Demo

Record the output of your app as a demo video and post it on YouTube. Promote your video heavily on social media, especially on platforms like Google . Google uses these platforms to identify potential early adopters. If you can get Google's attention, you might have a chance to win an early pair by ponying up $1500 for the Glass Explorer unit.

3. Internal Channel: Work for Google

Consider working for Google. As a Google employee, you automatically get access to internal products. This is one of the most reliable ways to get early access without any risks or cost.

Alternative Methods to Gain Early Access

If you're not a developer or willing to go through the development process, there are still a few unconventional methods you can explore:

1. Buy an Account from a 2012 Google I/O Attendee

If you know someone who attended the Google I/O event in 2012, you can purchase their Google account. This gives you access to the Glass Explorer units without the need for a physical device.

2. Bribe a Wearing Employee

Find a Google employee wearing Google Glass on the streets of NYC or urban CA and offer them a sockful of quarters in exchange for the device. However, be cautious as this is not an ethical or legal method.

3. Online Journalism

Gain access to a hands-on interview or demo with a member of the Glass team by becoming a reputable technology journalist. Use this opportunity to request a Glass Explorer unit after the demo. Following the methodology of suggestion 2, you might be able to bribe or persuade the employee to part with a device.

4. Market Leading Technology OEM

Partner with Google to become a market-leading technology OEM, world-class developer, or another high-growth partner. Formulating a collaborative strategic alliance can provide you with access to early prototypes.

DIY: Wearable Raspberry Pi

Another method involves creating a DIY wearable computer. Projects like the Wearable Raspberry Pi can provide a similar HUD experience and can be integrated with Raspberry Pi Zero for a more compact design.

Be Patient

Lastly, while the above methods might seem appealing, patience can also pay off. Waiting might mean you get an early pair of Google Glass when the units become more widely available, reducing the likelihood of high security risks associated with early access methods.

Note: High-security products are often manufactured and warehoused without firmware to make it more difficult to counterfeit. Thus, you might need to develop your own firmware or rely on legal and ethical channels for early access.