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New Google Glass Hardware Not Available To Current Owners

Google has announced new software and hardware upgrades for its Google Glass device, but current Explorers won't get the hardware upgrade.
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Google has announced an update for its Google Glass device based on feedback it received from the early-adopter group it calls The Explorer Program.

Software-wise, Google says it has improved battery life, added a voice-controlled viewfinder and Google Now features for keeping track of where you parked your car and when packages are set to arrive.

Hardware-wise, the company says it's ushering in better performance with 2GB of RAM, and several sources report the device has a bigger battery as well. (Via YouTube / Ty Moss)

And Gizmodo reports Google's launching a whole host of new apps for the device ahead of its annual Google I/O conference. (Via Flickr / TedEytan)

Like Livestream, an app that — yep — lets you broadcast from your Google Glass device and Shazam, the app for recognizing music. 

The new update, however, is causing a bit of an uproar. Despite Google's previous update — one in which the company swapped out old devices for new ones — it's not doing that this time.

So current members of The Explorer Program won't be able to get the RAM upgrade. (Via Flickr / Max Braun)

According to TechCrunch, Google says Glass' improved performance is mostly due to software updates, which are available to all Explorer Program members.

Despite the uproar, a writer for The Verge says there's something more important to pay attention to — it looks like we're still a while away from a public launch.

"With Google I/O 2014 ready to kick off, it looks like this latest update means the company won't be dropping any details about a final, consumer-ready version just yet."