Google Glass - News, Features, and Slideshows

Microsoft's next-generation Holographic Processing Unit (HPU) within the HoloLens will focus on machine learning.

Though some predictions around growth in the wearable tech market have been sobering, many fail to factor in the potential for wearables beyond fitness trackers and smartwatches. Fashion is now teaming up with tech to create smart fabrics and accessories in truly wearable designs that don't sacrifice functionality.

When Google has said it would end its Explorer program for Glass and stop selling the current version to consumers, a few premature obituaries were written for the head-worn device.

2014 was an eventful year for CIOs, with many starting new initiatives in mobility, wearables, machine learning and tapping into open data. Many CIOs also decided to change jobs and move to greener pastures.

More advanced algorithms will pull together different types of data from wearables and these devices will start to enter the workplace next year, analysts have predicted.

Google Glass isn't without its limitations -- not to mention privacy concerns -- but Google Glass 'Explorers' are finding many ways to use the device to work smarter and faster. The key to more widespread adoption, though, will be seamless integration into existing technology workflows.

Robots, 3-D printers and wearable tech are indeed cool, but they should raise red flags for IT leaders. Here's how these emerging technologies will cause operations, privacy and user policy headaches for CIOs in 2014.

Much of the talk surrounding Google Glass has focused on its consumer appeal. However, the device does have enterprise potential. CIOs should consider developing applications such as providing diagnostic advice to field service workers and mobile coupons to retail customers.

The high-profile Google Glass and Samsung Galaxy Gear are grabbing headlines in wearable technology news. However, the reality is that rather than products for the elite, wearables will be more practical, more affordable, more power-efficient -- and not fashion statements.