Google may use new input methods for its upcoming AR glasses: What are they – Times of India

Google not only made several new software-related announcements at the I/O 2022 event, but the company also teased multiple upcoming devices. The latest Pixel 7 smartphones and the company’s first-ever smartwatch — the Pixel watch — were also teased at Google’s annual developer meet. The company has already launched the Pixel 7 devices and the Pixel Watch. However, there are still some already teased devices that are left to debut even months after the event. For example, Google also teased the Pixel tablet which is yet to be launched. The company also mentioned the AR glasses which are also in the pipeline. These new AR Glasses will be different from the Google Glass that the company launched in 2013. Google is also reportedly exploring different input methods for the AR device.
Google AR Glasses’ new input method: How will it work
According to a report by 9to5Google, sources familiar with Google’s AR Glasses team have revealed that the company may use smart rings and bracelets as input methods for these upcoming glasses. Earlier, the company allowed users to control the Google Glass with a touchpad that they could tap and swipe gestures for various inputs. Google is likely to use the same method with these companion hand devices for the AR Glasses.

Google AR Glasses: Smart rings input method
In 2020, Google acquired a Canadian company called North which used to make glasses called Focals. These Focals glasses by North shipped with a ring called the “Loop” that had a joystick for users to move around the interface and select options. Google might use the same method for its AR Glasses. However, the company is expected to remove the joystick and instead add a more tactile surface which will be less bulky than the one that was offered by Focals.
Google AR Glasses: Bracelet input method
Meanwhile, the company is also exploring other solutions where users will be able to control the AR Glasses with smart bracelets. The bracelet control will also use a similar principle and will allow users to swipe and tap on them with their fingers. The bracelet-controlled input method is also speculated to offer haptic feedback.
Google is not going to release its AR Glasses any time soon. However, the company may divulge more details about the AR device in the upcoming Google I/O 2023 event