The NYPD's intelligence and analytics unit has begun testing Google's Glass eyewear, seeing whether the devices will help police officers investigate terrorists and otherwise stop criminals.
According to reports, the department has received a few pairs to beta test.
"We signed up, got a few pairs of the Google glasses, and we're trying them out, seeing if they have any value in investigations, mostly for patrol purposes," say the sources. "We're looking at them, you know, seeing how they work."
Currently, the glasses can only be purchased through the Glass Explorer Program, which requires an application or invite, an acceptance from Google and then a $1500 fee.
When asked if Google was helping with authorities, the company said they were not and that the NYPD's glasses were likely acquired through the Explorer program. "The Google Glass Explorer program includes people from all walks of life, including doctors, firefighters and parents. Anyone can sign up to become a Glass Explorer, provided he or she is a U.S. resident and over the age of 18," they added.
"We signed up, got a few pairs of the Google glasses, and we're trying them out, seeing if they have any value in investigations, mostly for patrol purposes," say the sources. "We're looking at them, you know, seeing how they work."
Currently, the glasses can only be purchased through the Glass Explorer Program, which requires an application or invite, an acceptance from Google and then a $1500 fee.
When asked if Google was helping with authorities, the company said they were not and that the NYPD's glasses were likely acquired through the Explorer program. "The Google Glass Explorer program includes people from all walks of life, including doctors, firefighters and parents. Anyone can sign up to become a Glass Explorer, provided he or she is a U.S. resident and over the age of 18," they added.
