While Google Inc. (GOOGL) has been guaranteeing an increased visual experience with on-the-go, hands-free entrée to photos, videos, emails, web-surfing and apps with its ground-breaking Google Glass, a recent study has revealed that it runs the risk of creating blind spots.
Google Glass — Not So Rose-Colored, After All?
Google Glass comprises of a headset that is worn like a pair of glasses, with an optical display positioned just above the right eye. Users can not only take pictures of objects in their range of sight and make videos but can also obtain directions and complete various other actions.
However, according to a recent study lead by Dr. Tsontcho Ianchulev, an ophthalmologist, the structure of these glasses could curb natural peripheral vision, thereby creating blind spots that compromise on the safety of the user while engaging in routine tasks like driving or walking.
To test its effect on visual function, Ianchulev and his colleagues compared Google Glass with standard eyewear. Three healthy individuals with 20/20 best-corrected vision and normal baseline visual fields were chosen to wear this device.
After an hour of wearing the Glass to get accustomed to it, they conducted visual tests to assess their peripheral vision. Then the same three people finished identical tests wearing regular eyeglasses.
All three participants had visible blind spots in the upper right area of the visual field when wearing Google Glass. However, this was only due to the structure of the frame as the device itself was turned off and the software not working during the test.
Risks of Blind Spots
Peripheralvision is used while engaging in day-to-day activities, which include driving, playing and crossing the road. Google Glass causes blind spots in the upper right area of the eye.
In fact, Ianchulev conducted this study after he almost met with an accident as he did not see a car coming from the right side while wearing the device.
Google’s Response
Google hasn’t denied the fact that the device blocks peripheral vision, but said that this is not uncommon when wearing shades, glasses, a baseball hat or hoodie. So the glass had to be worn correctly with the display positioned above the eye and not in front of it as mentioned in the guide.
According to Ianchulev and his colleagues, 30% of the images of Glass users on the Internet had the wearer position the screen area in front of the pupil of the right eye.
Some Good News for Google Glass, Too
Memorial Hermann stroke experts are experimenting with Google Glass for emergencies to find out whether it might lessen the time required for diagnosing and treating the life-threatening condition and reduce medical costs.
Other Stocks That Warrant a Look
Google currently has a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). Better-ranked stocks in this industry include Mercadolibre, Inc. (MELI), World Energy Solutions, Inc. (XWES) and Baidu Inc.(BIDU). While Mercadolibresports a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy), both Baidu and World Energy Solutionscarry a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).
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