Some Google Glass Explorers give their thoughts on the modern gadget

In the tech world, much excitement has been made about Google Glass over recent months. Much speculation over the final look of the device and its capabilities are reaching boiling point.

Though expected to go on sale next year, 1,000 of these are being tested by the surprisingly named Glass Explorers. Opinions on the technology are split, while some see wearable computer devices as the future of the digital age, others see even more intimate connections with the network as overwhelming, even scary.

The BBC gathered views from some who have tried Glass, as well as from those who have strong views about the overall project.

Senior software engineer, Dan McLaughlin from Agilent was mostly surprised how much there was to learn after using the glass for a few weeks. His issues have mainly been technical, since he wears glasses and the team have not yet released the Glass eyeglass frame (which is currently in development).

However he praised the camera feature and it’s relevance to the refrain ‘The best camera is the one you have on you’. " As an amateur photographer I’m finding it not too different from what I did before – just more convenient. Instead of having to pull out my cell phone and find the camera app to get that already gone shot of my 10-year-old, now it’s easier."

Other features he liked included checking the time without sending the signal that he is being hurried, pick up phone calls without effort, and quick access to emails which doesn’t feel like work unlike a computer in an office.

Nick Pickles, director of privacy campaign group Big Brother Watch, questions the permissions and breach of privacy repercussions such a device could have.

"Google’s greatest sleight of hand was to make us all think of ourselves as Google customers, when in reality we – or more accurately, data about us – are Google’s product. Advertisers are the customers, generating around 96% of Google’s revenue."

“Whoever asked what the Glass sees for its permission to be monitored? And don’t think for a second you’re in control of the data from your own Glass. You’re just a conduit for data collection. It makes CCTV cameras look trivial. Here is a real-time, always-on, internet-connected data stream being fed in – not from a fixed position on a building, but from among our everyday lives."

Certainly there are varying opinions for and against the project and it’s impact in the near future. However for those eager to get their hands on the wearable device, they're out of luck, at least until next year when it becomes available. Smartphone devices will just have to do for now, but there are a range one can choose from with competitive prices.

You could sell your iPhone 4S or a sell your Macbook for great value for money, which could be put towards getting a current premium handset in the mean time. Sell your camera or other old gadgets for good deals at Money4Machines.

For more information, visit Money4Machines at:

http://www.money4machines.co.uk/index-index.html