Google Glass is considered the next best thing in electronics, but just how much of an impact will it make once it hits store shelves? Will it be as revolutionary as the iPad or the iPhone, or will it prove to be a failure with consumers? Is the cost to extreme for the average person to consider using it? And what of the privacy issues?

Let's review what we know about Google Glass.

Google Glass came on the scene in 2012. Dubbed "Google Goggles," the idea seemed strange to comprehend and many thought the device would never see the light of day.

Come 2014, Google Glass is a very real thing, although it has yet to become available to the general public. As of now, Glass has only been offered to a select few tech enthusiasts and Google guinea pigs as part of the Glass Explorer program. For a price, Explorers get to test out the advanced eyewear that can answer questions, tell you the time, snap photos and record video among many other functions.

The device is essentially a smartphone that you wear on your face and operate primarily through voice recognition. It 640 x 360 resolution panel that sits right above your eye (comparable to a 25-inch HD display viewed from afar), a 5 megapixel camera with 720p video, 16GB storage and Wifi and Bluetooth connectivity. It sports three sets of adjustable nose pads, and can even be fitted with prescription lenses.

App support for the gadget is limited but it should attract more developers as interest in Glass increases and it becomes available to everyone. As it stands now, the device does not have a store price, but those taking part in the Explorer program have to put up a daunting $1,500.

Although the final price will likely be cheaper, it gives an indication that consumers can expect to pay at least the amount they would for a high-end smartphone.

Reviews for the device have varied, with many commending its functionality and ease of use. Criticisms include the limited battery life and lack of applications. Another concern has been the whole etiquette issue... is it rude or distracting to wear a device that can send messages or take pictures during social interactions? Some think this issue is overblown. Beyond the initial fascination with Glass, Explorers say people tended to forget it was even there.

Yet there is, and will likely continue to be, drama about a device that could potentially record someone without their knowledge. Recently an Explorer ran into an issue with suspected piracy at the movies.

One thing that many people agree on is the incredible possibilities that Google Glass provides. From driving assistance to police surveillance, the numerous benefits that Glass and its competitors could have may be revolutionary. Or not. With an unspecified release date set for later this year, we will just have to wait and see.