Microsoft reportedly working on prototypes for Google Glass-styled wearable

While Google has been working on getting Glass ready for a consumer release, Microsoft doesn’t want to let its competitor be the only one in the market to do so. Reports are popping up that the Redmond-based software giant is working on its own wearable tech that will rival Google’s Glass. According to Wall Street Journal, sources familiar with Microsoft’s project has revealed that the company has asked component makers in Asia to supply components for prototype eyewear. These components include cameras, among other things.

Microsoft may make its own Glass

With the advent of a bunch of wearable tech, such as Nike’s FuelBand, Sony’s SmartWatch and Samsung’s Galaxy Gear, it’s easy to see that Microsoft has been looking at the market with its ears perked. It also helps that quite analysts from market research firm ABI Research has predicted the sale of wearable devices to spike up by quite a bit; they will apparently reach 485 million units by 2018.

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Perhaps the most curious thing about this revelation is the fact that Microsoft seems keen on changing its image. The company was earlier only known for making software, with some dabbling in hardware here and there. This has obviously changed by quite a bit, especially considering the Xbox, Surface and the recent acquisition of Nokia. It is, however, worth noting that Microsoft’s wearable prototypes may never see the light of day. If this does work out, Google will have quite a competitor in the form of Microsoft. As the old adage goes: competition between companies is good for the consumer.