Google Glass, the wearable computer glasses with an optical head-mounted display, is one of the coolest new pieces of tech in development. But if you’re not one of the lucky few invited into the Glass Explorer program, here are five non-Google alternatives.

1. Five alternatives to Google Glass
Google Glass, the wearable computer glasses with an optical head-mounted
display, is one of the coolest new pieces of tech in development. But if you’re not
one of the lucky few invited into the Glass Explorer program, here are alternatives.
By Jeff Jedras
Image by Loic Le Meur

2. GlassUp
Italy is known for its designer shades, so Italian start up GlassUp is probably worth
watching. Contribute to its Indiegogo campaign and you can get one of its first
augmented reality glasses when it enters production next year.

3. Recon Jet
Want to keep it Canadian? Vancouver’s Recon Instruments will ship the Recon Jet
in February. The Android glasses have a dual core CPU, Bluetooth, WiFi, an HD
camera and a high resolution display. There’s even an altimeter if you find yourself
off the ground.

4. Lumus
Unlike some augmented displays, Lumus uses both sides of the glasses for the
display. You can watch TV, check your e-mail, and look up information on the Web.
Just remember to watch where you’re going. It also promises to be lighter than its
competitors.

5. Epiphany Eyewear
From Vergence Labs, Epiphany Eyewear is among the more stylish Google Glass
alternatives out there. One big caveat: there’s no display. There is an HD camera to
record video, onboard storage, and the ability to stream what you’re seeing out to
the world via your smartphone.

6. Telepathy
Developed by a Japanese start up, Telepathy also offers a sleek and stylish design,
as well as a camera and a projection display unit designed to promote social
interaction. App developers are being encouraged to create apps for users, and a
U.S. office has been opened.