Microsoft reportedly testing its own version of Google Glass
The folks in Redmond, Wash., are testing prototypes of wearable eyewear, says The Wall Street Journal.
Microsoft could have its eye on a rival to Google Glass.
The company is testing prototypes for Internet-connected glasses similar to Google's high-tech specs, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. Citing the usual "people familiar with the matter," the journal revealed no details about the prototypes, but it did note that the project is part of Microsoft's strategy to compete with Google, Samsung, and Apple in the device market.
A spokesman for Microsoft told CNET that the company had no comment on the rumors.
Google launched Google Glass earlier this year with a $1,500 Explorer edition aimed at developers and early adopters. The company had hoped to release a less expensive consumer version later this year, but with only a few months left in 2013, that doesn't look likely.
Other companies are aiming to enter the high-tech eyewear market. Recon Instruments is prepping its Reconjet glasses for a March 2014 launch and will continue to invest in wearable computing, thanks to a "significant" investment from Intel. Samsung is rumored to be working on a product called Gear Glass.
High-tech eyewear is likely to be a niche market for the next few years, Canalys analyst Daniel Matte told the journal, but some products could fare well in the areas of health and security.
Updated 9:00 a.m. PT with response from Microsoft.