Google Glass on sale for one day...but only in the US

published 11 April 2014

Google's Glass spectacles will be released for one day only in the US as an extension of its Explorer Programme.

Demand for the wearable computer will be tested on US consumers before going on sale permanently and hopefully around the world.

Google confirmed the news in a blog post, saying: "Next Tuesday, April 15th at 6am PDT, we're opening up some spots in the Glass Explorer Program. 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."

The number of products available will be limited and they will be shipped out on a first come, first served basis, Google confirmed.

Google decided to go ahead with the limited release after the success of the #ifihadglass campaign the company ran on its Google+ and Twitter accounts. Those individuals who had the best ideas were invited to join Google's Explorer Program as testers.

The Google Glass Google+ account posted, "Every day we get requests from those of you who haven't found a way into the program yet, and we want your feedback too. So in typical Explorer Program fashion, we're trying something new."

Google hasn't said exactly why the trial is only for US customers, but did offer this apology: "To everyone outside the US... we know. Sorry :( We're just not ready yet to bring Glass to other countries."

The Google Explorer Programme currently has around 10,000 worldwide testers of the device working in a wide range industries, including the US Airforce, which announced it was testing the wearable tech in the battlefield.

Clare is the founder of Blue Cactus Digital, a digital marketing company that helps ethical and sustainability-focused businesses grow their customer base.

Prior to becoming a marketer, Clare was a journalist, working at a range of mobile device-focused outlets including Know Your Mobile before moving into freelance life.

As a freelance writer, she drew on her expertise in mobility to write features and guides for ITPro, as well as regularly writing news stories on a wide range of topics.