Tech Town: Google Goggles

January 11, 2011 | Story by: Hal Goodtree | Categories: Business, Featured, News, Technology

Cary, NC – On Twitter this icy morning, Google Goggles was trending (that means it was a very popular topic of conversation). I did not know what Google Goggles were, but I had to have a pair.

Google Goggles

Google Goggles, it turns out, is an app for your smart phone that reads bar codes and connects print media to the online world of information.

You snap a picture of something with your phone and Google Goggles shows you related data.

Things You Can Do with Google Goggles

Her are just a few of the useful things you can do with this free Android and iPhone app.

• Bar Codes – Snap a shot of a bar code on almost anything – a can of beans at the supermarket or a washing machine at Home Depot – and get connected to a world of information. Product ratings, nutrition, even competitive prices.
• Translate Text – Take a picture of something in German and it will translate it into English. Presumably works for some other languages as well.
• Magazine Ads – Some magazine ads now include data that can be scanned by smart phones. Get a coupon or more info from a print ad.
• Landmarks – Take a picture of a landmark and you’re connected to directions, hours, travel guides.
• Books – Photograph a book cover and find out about the author, plot, publisher and retailers.
• Business Cards – Take a picture of a business card and capture the contact information.
• Wine – Snap a shot of the label and find out what others thought about the vintage.

Android and iPhone

Google Goggles is currently available for Android and iPhone. Check it out:

Google Goggles

If you know of another similar app, let us know what you’re using.

Sponsor

Tech Town is sponsored by Goodtree & Co Digital Arts, makers of fine websites and other techie stuff. Find out how you can sponsor a channel on CaryCitizen.