The glasshole detector: App can detect when someone is wearing Google's wearable computer nearby - and throw them off a network
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Amid rising concerns over the privacy of Google's wearable computer, a German artist has created a piece of software that can 'sniff out' users.
The script can look for wearer's connected to the same wifi network - and even sound an alert to warn everyone nearby.
The software can even be set to stop the user connecting, barring them from a network.
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The software comes amid rising concerns about the privacy issues around glass - and can alert users if a wearer is nearby
HOW IT WORKS
The Glasshole.sh software detects any Glass device attempting to connect to a Wi-Fi network based on a unique character string.
When loaded on a computer is can sound an alert when it detects a connection from Glass.
When it detects Glass, it uses the program Aircrack-NG to impersonate the network and send a "deauthorization" command, cutting the headset's Wi-Fi connection.
'To say 'I don't want to be filmed' at a restaurant, at a party, or playing with your kids is perfectly ok,' Julian Oliver told Wired.
'But how do you do that when you don't even know if a device is recording?
'This steps up the game. It's taking a jammer-like approach.'
Google recently put its controversial eyewear back on sale to the US public.
The firm is offering the 'explorer edition', the $1500 test version of the eyewear, for general sale after an initial 24 hour sale sold out.
It is believed the firm wants to increase the number of people people using the hardware - and potentially clear its inventory for the 'real' consumer version.
Next generation: Google Glass has revealed the new look of its high-tech device
HOW TO BUY GLASS
Buyers can visit http://ift.tt/1hDJ5yF to buy Glass.
'Any adult in the US can become an Explorer by visiting our site and purchasing Glass for $1500 + tax – and it now comes with your favorite shade or frame, thanks to feedback from our current Explorers.
Source: Google
The firm announced a 24 hour sale last month after its plans were leaked, and the device sold out within hours.
Today, it reappeared online for sale to anyone if what is described as an 'open beta'.
With the release of the second-generation, those already enrolled in the Google Explorer program were able to 'invite' three of their friends to the scheme.
Reaction to the new design was mixed, with some critics saying changes to the device looked bulky.
Google has come under fire for the unfashionable look of Glass, although has developed its own frames for the system which allow prescription lenses, and partnered with Ray-Ban to develop fashionable frames.
The secret document obtained by The Verge that reveals the plan
Stylish: The frames will be available in a range of colors and will work with prescription glasses
However, the updates were welcomed by those who have a first-generation device, with comments on its Google + page commenting that the changes would improve user experience.
One owner, Dawn Martin, commented: 'My glass has been useless for phone calls and nav because I can't hear it well enough ... yay for updates/upgrades!'
Improved: The slightly bulkier design comes with a detachable ear piece to improve commands
Upgrade: Big Bang Theory's Kunal Nayyar wearing the Google Glass at the Emmys in September. Those with the earlier design will be able to swap their old device for the new one
Another fan of the device, Jeremiah Townsend, commented: 'Can't wait ... now that we'll be able to use them with prescription glasses, they'll be glued to my face.'
Others however complained that the device was still not widely available.
GLASS ETIQUETTE
Google recently revealed the first official etiquette guide for its Glass wearable computer - and admits users have been seen as 'creepy and rude' for wearing the device.
The firm warns users to ask people's permission before recording them, and warns against 'glassing out' where they focus on the screen too much.
The guide comes as Google is expanding the number of people who have the $1500 prototypes, ahead of an expected release later this year.
'With new technology comes new questions, and our Explorers help to answer those questions,' Google said.
'Since the program started, our Explorers have gotten a lot of attention when they wear Glass out and about.
'Reactions range from the curious – 'Wow! Are those the 'Google glasses'? How do they work?" – to the suspect – 'Goodness gracious do those things see into my soul?!'
However, the Google Explorer program has been praised for using a clever marketing model where people buy a product at its developmental stage so they can contribute to shaping its design.
'In essence Google has crowdfunded Glass and has shown big business how crowdfunding can be done. In essence it is a giant kickstarter campaign in all but name,' according to Forbes.
It estimated that Google would have earned about $50 million during the development phase as well as enhancing the desirability of the product.
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