Golden-I Takes On Project Glass

A couple of decades ago, wearable displays and head-mounted computers were the stuff of spy stories science fiction – which is certainly where Kopin, Inc. seems to have gotten the inspiration for Golden-i. They're calling their new device a head-mounted computer, with a bevy of integrated sensors and radios to help it along. Instead of acting like a more techy version of glasses like Google's Project Glass, the Golden-i is designed to actually fit over standard glasses or safety goggles giving it applications in all sorts of industrial capacities. Golden-i will make another trade show appearance at CTIA.

The primary device, or at least what can be seen from the render, looks like a very stripped-down helmet. It braces over the top of the user's head, inserts a speaker into either the right or left ear and sends a screen out on a boom over the corresponding eye. IT looks like the "guts" of the portable computer extend around the back of the head. Kopin claims that the small screen simulates a 15-inch computer monitor when worn, and the whole thing weighs just three to six ounces. Voice control and gesture movement are included, and the unit has been developed with help from Microsoft, Texas Instruments, Motorola and Nuance, among others.

We checked out Golden-i a couple of years ago, so we're hoping that it's made significant progress in both technology and availability. Communication comes from Bluetooth and WiFi radios, which seems a little limiting in the face of always-on smartphones. There will be a 1080p camera attachment offered as well. Kopin isn't saying what software powers the Golden-i, but an ARM-based OS like Android seems likely. There's no word on a price or date, but the company is on hand at CTIA this week. Well be sure to swing by and check it out.