Definition
“Glasshole” is a slang term used to describe people who wear Google Glass, a wearable technology with a head-mounted display, in an obnoxious or intrusive manner. This term often implies that the individual is ignoring social norms or invading others’ privacy while using the device. The term is a combination of “Google Glass” and the pejorative term “asshole.”
Phonetic
The phonetic spelling of the keyword “Glasshole” is: /ˈɡlæshoÊŠl/
Key Takeaways
- Glasshole is a term referring to users of the Google Glass device who are inconsiderate and invasive in public spaces, causing a negative perception of the technology.
- Some common concerns about Glasshole behavior include privacy invasion, constant recording and surveillance, and a general sense of the users being overconfident and self-centered.
- As a result of the Glasshole phenomenon, many establishments banned the use of Google Glass, and it is essential for technology companies to address and manage users’ behavior to prevent a negative impact on the acceptance of new products and technologies.
Importance
The term “Glasshole” gained importance as it reflects the social and ethical concerns surrounding the use of emerging technologies, particularly wearable devices like Google Glass.
Coined as a derogatory term, a Glasshole is someone who uses Google Glass in a manner that is invasive, obnoxious, or disrespectful to the privacy and comfort of others.
The term highlights the need for responsible and considerate use of technology, as well as underlines the importance of addressing potential issues related to surveillance, privacy, social etiquette, and security with the rapid growth of such technological advancements.
Explanation
The term “Glasshole” emerged around 2013, essentially as slang to describe an individual who was perceived as obnoxious or intrusive while wearing a Google Glass device. Google Glass, a revolutionary concept at the time, was an optical head-mounted display that aimed to introduce a new means of interacting with technology in a hands-free, natural way.
These wearable gadgets provided users with an augmented reality experience, where they could access applications, record videos, and navigate via voice commands without needing to disengage from their social environment. Despite the potential for revolutionary convenience and productivity, the innovation faced significant backlash due to concerns about privacy, aesthetics, and etiquette.
The term Glasshole highlights these concerns by drawing attention to the ways in which users utilizing Google Glass were perceived as being detached, inconsiderate, or even voyeuristic. Glassholes, as per the societal perspective, were often associated with individuals who disregarded how their usage of Google Glass might impact others, causing discomfort or suspicion in social settings.
This phenomenon sparked a conversation about the intersection of technology and interpersonal behavior, particularly when it comes to respecting the boundaries and privacy of others. Ultimately, the term Glasshole serves as a lesson to tech enthusiasts and developers alike, emphasizing the importance of balancing technological sophistication with social and ethical responsibilities.
Examples of Glasshole
Glasshole, a term often used to describe people who wore Google Glass, refers to individuals using these smart glasses in intrusive or socially inappropriate ways. Google Glass was an augmented reality (AR) headset that allowed wearers to perform various tasks such as taking photos, recording videos, getting directions, and more. Here are three real-world examples of Glasshole behavior:
Movie Theater Disturbance: In January 2014, a man wearing Google Glass was removed from a movie theater in Columbus, Ohio, due to concerns about potential recording of copyrighted content. The man was detained and questioned by federal agents before being released. This case highlights the fears people had about Google Glass wearers potentially recording copyrighted material without permission.
Privacy Invasion at a Bar: In 2013, a woman wearing Google Glass walked into a bar in San Francisco called “Molotov’s.” After being asked to remove the device by the bar staff due to privacy concerns, she refused and a confrontation ensued. Eventually, she left the bar, but this sparked a debate about the appropriateness of wearing the technology in public spaces where people expect privacy.
Restaurant Incident in Seattle: In 2014, a Google Glass wearer, Nick Starr, was asked to leave a restaurant named the Lost Lake Cafe in Seattle due to their policy against wearable technology. The restaurant believed that the presence of the device could make other customers uncomfortable and jeopardize their privacy. After an intense exchange of words, Starr eventually left the restaurant.These real-world examples illustrate some of the negative public attitudes towards Google Glass and its users, who were often known as Glassholes. They showcase the concerns and debates surrounding the issue of privacy and the potentially intrusive nature of augmented reality technology in public spaces.
FAQ – Glasshole
What is a Glasshole?
A Glasshole is a term used to describe a person who wears Google Glass, a smart, voice-controlled wearable device, in a manner that others consider intrusive, annoying or disrespectful. Typically, this involves the misuse of the device, such as recording people without their consent or engaging in socially awkward behavior while wearing the Glass.
What are some common Glasshole behaviors?
Common Glasshole behaviors include recording or photographing others without their consent, frequently checking notifications and social media in social settings, and displaying an air of superiority due to owning the device. These behaviors can lead to a negative perception of both the wearer and the technology.
How can I avoid being a Glasshole?
To avoid being seen as a Glasshole, practice proper etiquette while using Google Glass: ask for permission before recording or photographing others, avoid using the device during face-to-face conversations and only use voice commands when necessary. Be respectful and considerate of those around you, and take off the Glass in situations where its use is inappropriate, such as in a movie theater or during a performance.
What can I do if someone behaves like a Glasshole?
If you encounter a Glasshole, calmly explain your concerns about their behavior and ask them to stop if they are using the device inappropriately. If they refuse, consider reporting the incident to the relevant authorities or the venue’s management, especially if your privacy or personal safety is being compromised.
What is being done to address Glasshole behavior?
Many establishments, such as bars, restaurants, and theaters, have instituted policies that ban the use of Google Glass and other wearable devices to protect patron privacy. Furthermore, Google has provided guidelines for Glass users on proper etiquette and encouraged developers to create Glassware (apps for Google Glass) that discourage negative behaviors. Ultimately, increasing user awareness and promoting a culture of respect and consideration for others will help address Glasshole behavior.
Related Technology Terms
- Augmented Reality
- Google Glass
- Wearable Technology
- Smart Glasses
- Privacy Concerns
