Future Friday: How Smart Glasses could Change Podcasts

More listening choices than ever before

It’s no secret the rise of smartphones brought about the rise of podcasts. By 2021, the global podcast industry is expected to generate more than $1 billion in revenue. Evidently, it’s time to update the lyrics to the Buggles’ 1979 hit Video killed the radio star.

READ: Future Friday: Smart Glasses could soon be an Interior Designer’s Favorite tool

Indeed, podcasts have begun to steer audiences away from AM talk radio stations as iPhones and Androids replace radios. As is the case with music, consumers have more control than ever over who and what they listen to.

Technology continues to change the way we consume pre-recorded conversations. Credit: The Library Lap

This means that voices like Joe Rogan and other popular podcasters gain global followings while local broadcasters compete for shrinking audiences. Apple recently confirmed it offers listeners over 550,000 podcasts, meaning morning commutes feature less regional content that ever before. The airwaves slowly eliminate borders – allowing global news and conversations to speak over local stories.

Incoming technological leaps

Tech advances have facilitated this transition – or, evolution, depending on who you ask. This era of disruption is an unstoppable trend, meaning more innovations are set to enhance the way we listen to recorded conversations.

AR (augmented reality) is already changing the way we consume beloved pastimes like video games. Soon, it’ll change the way we listen to our favorite podcasts.

 Smart glasses like the Vuzix Blade will change the way we consume podcasts

How smart glasses could enhance the podcast experience

Smart glasses have already begun to complement smartphones. And, someday they’ll replace them.

These advanced spectacles will allow users to scroll through podcast libraries without taking their eyes off what’s in front of them. Say goodbye to bumping into people when choosing between Conan O-Brien Needs a Friend and WTF with Marc Maron.

Additionally, subtitles and speaker names could be displayed in your lenses. No longer will you miss a key point because of poor audio or forget who’s in the broadcast booth as your favorite host’s guest for this week.

We’re just scratching the surface of what’s capable. The marriage between podcasts and smart glasses is a natural one, and it’ll be exciting to see how AR enhances the way we take in recorded conversations between our favorite personalities.

A Disclaimer Note from the Author: On Fridays we often let our imagination run wild at Vuzix. With our ‘Future Friday’ segment, we explore the endless possibilities offered by smart glasses. We encourage you to provide your feedback as your input will help us make these dreams a reality.