Google Glass GDK

The Glass Development Kit (GDK) for developers is a new tool box launched last month for creating applications using Google Glass. The official Google Glass GDK release is set for 2014. The preview was available for developers to test and identify any potential bugs. The Glass Development Kit is an add-on to the Android SDK that lets Android users build Glassware that runs directly on Glass.

Vogue

The kit is built for developers to design and develop for Glass with the GDK The GDK is an Android SDK add-on that contains APIs for Glass-specific features. By using the Android SDK and GDK, Android users can leverage the vast array of Android APIs and also design a great experience for Glass.

Google Glass shared the following post on the Google + blog stating, “As of today, developers can now do more with Glass. This means that the people who build the services that you love can create even more robust Glassware. To give you a taste of what’s possible, we're launching 5 new Glassware from Strava, Allthecooks Recipes, Word Lens, GLU and GolfSight. These were all built on the new platform and have transformed some of our favorite activities in really exciting ways."

Glassware built with the GDK runs on Glass itself, allowing access to low-level hardware features. Google’s developer site explains how working in the Android environment, the company has designed the Glass platform to make the existing Android SDK just work on Glass. Developers are able to code in a familiar environment, but for a uniquely novel device. In addition, all existing Android development tools, and Glassware is even delivered as standard APK.

The five new glass apps also released include: Strava, Allthecooks Recipes, Word Lens, GLU, and GolfSight. The Strava app is a new app which lets athletes all over the world experience social fitness — sharing, comparing and competing with each other's personal fitness data via mobile and online apps. Currently focused on the needs of avid cyclists and runners, Strava lets users track their rides and runs via Android or dedicated GPS device to analyze and quantify performance. Strava makes fitness a social experience, providing motivation and camaraderie.

Android users can also cook directly with Google Glass with the Allthecooks Recipes app. Allthecooks has a vibrant community of cooks. There are access to use the search filters. The app allows users to upload their recipe pictures and get instant feedback from the community. Users can ask questions and someone will reply within minutes with a real-time chatting platform. The app is a convenient way for users to cook from home and search for new recipes.

Word Lens delivers real time translation to Google Glass. The Android app features an instant way to translate printed words to the Android phone. Word Lens results appear immediately on the users video screen when and works similar to a  regular camera. Users can look up translations by typing them in, or clicking on a word.

GLU by Glu Mobile is the first game app released for Google Glass. The app is a interactive word puzzle game “Spellista” for Google Glass. GolfSight Android app for Google Glass features a Golf GPS rangefinder made for Google Glass. Users can keep track of their score as they play. Just tap and swipe on Glass to set the score for the hole. After the round, take a picture with Glass and make a vignette to share with friends.