The Google Glass’s specs were meant to be deciphered only by the tech elite and early adopters from day one, thanks to its $1,500 price tag. But according to the blog Geek, once the much-hype about AR lens hits retail shelves, it’s expected to be priced at $299.

The tech-focus website says that such pricing could make Glass a hit to consumers. The price has yet to be confirmed, but it came from at least one tech researcher using industry insider information and common sense, according to Geek.

It should be easy for Google to sell Glass at the said price tag.

Wearable gadget just a fad?

In an article, tech writer Dave Johnson chronicled his experience with the wearable gadget, which he purchased for the $1,500 price. He said that “Google glass is a fun gadget” but a bit too geeky and a “little short on functionality.” He emphasized that even for a tech lover like him, the item could be too much.

According to firmology.com, the product might just be a fad, saying that that no matter who’s wearing the lens, no one looks cool with it on.

The tech blog and news site noted that if consumers feel too conscious about wearing a product, they won’t be wearing the product for long.

Johnson who wore the glasses for one week wrote that it’s not possible to wear a pair of Google Glass without drawing attention. Although the gadget looks nominally without glasses, they have no lenses. He described that one half of the frame is noticeably bulky, primarily because it houses a complete Android computer and a battery. The battery could also get hot when Glass is kept on for a while.

Interaction with the Glass to activate its functions could look “goofy” according to Johnson. To see the display, the wearer needs to look upward, as if staring at a ceiling, and to control it requires voice commands and touch gestures.

In terms of functionality, the tech writer noted that it can’t do a lot. The wearable gadget, without the apps, only enables the user to dictate emails, perform Google searches, shoot images and videos, and get Google Maps directions.

Since the item is not yet released to the public, only a handful of apps are available.

Bad reviews and privacy issues

Most of the reviews on the Glass are focused on its physical look, and according to Firmology, the reviews are rarely glowing. Some of the not-so flattering comments on the device are: the touch pad makes one leg much chunkier than the other, the display sits right where people tend to look when they are paying attention to you, and the lack of lenses is reminiscent of lens-less plastic frames.

The privacy outcries concerning the Glass must also be noted. Before the AR lens had a bigger release for early adopters, a number of strip clubs, casinos, parks and banks have said that they will not allow Google Glass to be used in their premise.