Inside “SemaConnect for Glass” – A New EV Charging Stations App for Google Glass

Image CC licensed by: lawrencegs

While the idea of wearing an interactive computer equipped with a head-mounted display may seem like something out of a sci-fi thriller, it is now a reality for a small number of Google Glass users. 

Indeed, if you’ve been following developments in the tech industry, you will notice that Google’s latest foray into wearable technology has been causing quite a stir. With a tiny, heads-up display located at the corner of the user’s vision, Glass purports to be one of the world’s first truly-ubiquitous smart computers on the market.

Here at SemaConnect, we’re always looking for new ways to harness the power of innovative technology to improve the EV driving experience. So when we noticed Google Glass making inroads in the tech world, we immediately began thinking of practical ways to utilize wearable technology to help EV drivers.

The result is the new “SemaConnect for Glasss” app, and we feel it offers some exciting opportunities to enhance the EV driving experience.

What is Google Glass?

Since Google Glass is quite new, many people are still unsure exactly how it works. Basically, Google Glass is worn just like a pair of glasses except that there is a tiny screen on the side which emulates viewing a 26” HD TV from eight feet away. Interaction with the device is carried out through the tiny screen, which can send phone calls and texts, show the weather and time, check emails, take pictures and video, and display maps. The user communicates with the interface by saying “Ok Glass…” and then giving a command.

While the idea of wearable technology is still brand new, response to Google Glass has generally been positive. Although there may still be a few kinks to work out, devices like Glass could just be on the brink of a new technological transformation. 

What can “SemaConnect for Glass” do for Google Glass users?

Harnessing the power of wearable technology is a logical extension of the EV driving experience. 

The number of charging stations is increasing every day, and the growing number of EV drivers will continue to need places to charge their cars. One thing our app can do is display a list of nearby charging stations and allow users to view where that location is on the map.

Imagine being able to say “Ok Glass… where is the closest EV charging station?” and then being able to visualize the location of that charging station right in your field of vision. It will streamline the process of locating a place to charge your car, and allow you to determine exactly which station will best suit your needs.

This feature will be particularly helpful when you are on a long EV trip or are in an unfamiliar place. 

Our turn-by-turn navigation feature will take you exactly to your charging station, thus removing the stress out of finding a charging station when you’re far from home. When you finally arrive at the charging station, you will also be able to initiate a charging session right from the Glass interface.

Ultimately, the Google Glass market is still relatively small and it will likely be a few years before the technology truly becomes mainstream. But we’re excited with where wearable technology is headed and how it can enhance the EV driving experience

Stay tuned for the release date of SemaConnect for Glass, as it will be available for download through the MyGlass app once it passes review in the Apple and Android stores. 

 Joseph Tohill is a freelance writer and online communications specialist for organizations in the sustainability sector. He has a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of British Columbia and spent most of his academic career studying sustainable urban development; namely the interdisciplinary relationship between built form and natural environment.