Google Glass: The Next Big Remote IT Support Tool? (Yes)
Google Glass, part of the wearable computing wave, is attracting plenty of developer interest. The New York Times, Facebook, Twitter and CNN, among others, have already introduced applications (known as Glassware) for the Glass Explorer preview. Will channel partners make money reselling Google Glass when the devices ship in 2014? The VAR Guy isn't sure. But he sees a big opportunity in the IT support market.
Google Glass, as Newsfactor Business Report notes, "contains a hidden computer, a thumbnail-size transparent display screen above the right eye and other digital wizardry. This Internet-connected headgear is set up to let users receive search results, read email, scan maps for directions and engage in video chats without reaching for a smartphone. Google Glass' grasp of voice commands even makes it possible to shoot hands-free photos and videos."
Now imagine the typical VAR with an on-site support person navigating a customer's data center. The support pro can't quite fix a network issue. So he calls on a support peer — working back at the VAR's headquarters — for some help. Instead of using words to describe the issue, the remote support pro sees everything first-hand, by tapping into the on-site pro's Google Glass display.
That application, and plenty more, will likely emerge in the business market. Each application will be known as Glassware. Here's what's coming:
- The Wall Street Journal predicts Google Glass could become "a fixture in the operating room."
- Fidelity Investments has launched a preview of an investing application called Fidelity Market Monitor for Glass.
- Tons of games… because geeks and VARs love games.
Of course, Glass also raises plenty of privacy and security questions. Multiple U.S. states have banned Google Glass from casinos. And reports suggest the U.K. will ban wearing Google Glass while driving.
But all those bans suggest the following: Critics expect Google Glass to eventually become a hit. Some folks suggest the $1,500 devices will actually cost around $300 when they launch for commercial sale in 2014.
The VAR Guy suspects channel partners will be among the first buyers.