Google releases specs for Google Glass, begins shipping first units

Google has announced the specifications for Google Glass, its upcoming heads-up display. Here they are:

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• A display that’s comparable to a “25 inch high definition screen from eight feet away.”
• 5 megapixel camera
• 720 video recording
• Bone conduction audio
• 802.11b/g Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth (not clear if this is 4.0, but that seems likely, as it’s low power)
• 16GB flash memory storage; 12GB usable (and synced with Google’s cloud storage services)
• Battery will last one full day of “typical use” — less if you’re doing video recording or Google+ Hangouts.
• Micro USB port. A cable and charger are included, and the support page warns you to use the included charger, so it’s probably a nonstandard current.
• Adjustable nosepads, with two sizes of extra pads.

The site says Glass will be compatible with “any Bluetooth-capable phone,” but a companion app, called MyGlass, will require Android 4.0.3 (Ice Cream Sandwich) or higher in order to enable GPS and SMS message delivery.

Notably missing from the specs:

• Exact display resolution details
• Cellular network connectivity
• Processor specs
• Warranty details

The company made the announcement through the somewhat sideways means of a support forum answer.

In addition, Google announced details of the Mirror API for coding apps that work with Google Glass (hat tip: Engadget) and let early wannabe beta testers know that the first 2,000 units of Google Glass will be shipping soon.

Photo: Stock image from Google Glass website.