Rapid technological advancements in the 21st century have brought about what we call “smart” devices, ranging from mobile phones to televisions with numerous functions meant to make our lives more convenient. Not long after their introduction, human’s continuous crave for convenience has led to the emergence of wearable devices: accessories incorporating advanced electronic and computer technologies. Representing the next chapter in mobile computing, these wearable devices are the most hotly-anticipated gadgets that can perform various day to day tasks. Several features of popular wearable “smart” devices available, Google Glasses and Galaxy Gears, are briefly described below.
Even though the physical appearance of a Google Glass resembles ordinary spectacles, it is more attractive in terms of its interactive features. Simple actions such as taking photographs and videos that require cumbersome manual tasks can now all be done with a series of voice commands without a need for any hand gestures. Along with WIFI connection or 3G/4G, one can even share what one sees with others in real time. People may question the reliability of the screens on the glasses as they may distract one’s vision especially when driving or talking face-to-face with others, but in fact, these are merely misguided concerns; screens on Google Glasses are designed in such a way that they do not block one’s vision due to their tiny optimum size.
Galaxy Gear, on the other hand, is described as an add-on gadget for “smart” phones. When Galaxy Gear is connected wirelessly to any Samsung “smart” phone models released after Galaxy Note 3, it receives all incoming calls and messages. This means that with Galaxy Gear wrapped around one’s wrist, one can check messages and receive calls simply by drawing one’s wrist close to one’s mouth in the case where the phone is not in close proximity. The fact that it is waterproof and has camera functions attract many people who opt for luxurious lifestyles.
Unfortunately, people have different points of view toward these wearable devices. While some people make worthwhile use of these devices during activities such as fitness testing, devices, especially Google Glass, are sometimes seen as potential violations of privacy. Critics argue that hand-free video recording of third parties without consent may raise serious ethical issues. As data uploading can be done regardless of the time and place, unwanted pictures or videos of a person might leak into an online pool, again violating both privacy and security. Considering the fact that these devices can be misplaced relatively easily, personal information may be accessible to an anonymous user who might exploit personal data. Furthermore, Galaxy Gear without any synchronized “smart” phones, seem rather pointless, as it will only serve like any other digital watches available in free markets.
Every piece of new technology usually causes an initial public discomfort. It took society a long time to accept cell phones as commonplace. Everything will eventually find its place as problems are always being identified and analyzed to bring about gadgets that fulfill our needs.