The glasses looks similar to Oakley’s MP3-playing Thump line — somewhat of a departure from the “normal-people” eyewear that had been initially described — and incorporates a front-facing camera and flash. The on-board hardware is said to be in line with a “generation-old” Android phone, and while it’s claimed that the glasses will operate as a smartphone, it’s unclear if a cellular radio is integrated or if pairing with an Android device will be required.

According to the tip, the glasses aren’t transparent… but if there’s an onboard camera, presumably the front view could be provided in real time so you don’t walk into things. I think it’s self-evident that this technology will be ubiquitous someday, and the only question is how soon. Sign me up for the beta as soon as one’s available.

Update: something similar to my proposed HUD display is already available for Android.