Google Glass – the Next Big Thing in the travel
industry?
We could think that we are watching a
sci-fi movie by looking at the video released by Google this last February
regarding its new high-tech product: Glass. These interactive glasses gather in
one device all the digital applications you could use when traveling. Indeed, through
Glass you will be able to visualize maps and to ask Glass for your next
direction via a GPS. Besides, Glass provides an augmented reality -powered
search. Thus, when visiting, for instance the Eiffel Tower, you can ask Glass
information regarding this monument. You will also be able to take pictures of
what you have in front of you in the blink of an eye. If you need flight
information, Glass can provide instant updates such as delays, directions to
gates or the time you need to reach it. From the video posted by Google we can
also observe that different communication tools are available such as text
messaging or videoconferencing.
In order to
get more ideas regarding applications that could be developed for Glass, Google
launched the “Explorer Program” last month that offered 8, 000 fans the chance
to pay 1500 dollars to have the privilege of testing the Glass which date release
has not been announced yet.
As Karthick Prabu explains in
his article, Tourism & Travel companies will also have to start thinking
about the future applications of Glass in their industry as the product may be
quickly adopted by consumers. Thus, for the hospitality
sector, it could be used in hotel rooms as it is the case for Ipad today. It
could also replace the current audio guides when exploring a museum or a city.
Last but not least, this device could also be provided in airplanes as an entertainment
system.
Many other
possible applications can be thought for the future: hotel search through
Google Maps, flight search, real-time discounts in hotels, museums,
restaurants, etc. when walking in the street, or integrating Google Now that
has the capacity to provide “the nearest photo spot and nearby attractions to a
place”.
All in all,
Glass has a great potential of use for the travel industry but it may be too
soon to realize what will be the real impact of such a device. At a time where
mobile is just at its premises, tourism consumers may not be ready to switch
from a digital tool to another. Indeed, Glass will face different challenges
when launching its commercialization. First of all, we could wonder if
customers will see the advantages of using this type of device when they can
use their smartphones. Thus, considering that the price of such glasses is
quite expensive, consumers need to perceive the added value compared to
existing products. Another factor that could be an obstacle to mass consumption
is simply the design of the Glass. In fact, many consumers could be reluctant
to buy this device as it needs to be worn on faces and have a “funny aspect”.
Key words: travel, tourism, new technology, Google
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Contributed by Estelle Bidon and Audrey Tatard
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