Some beta testers for Google Glass are claiming that the new tech innovation could become a hazard of distraction for pedestrian safety, meanwhile a string of bars in San Francisco have been banning Google Glass "Explorers" from frequenting their establishments, citing reasons of "etiquette."

Are these hassles enough to prevent a nation-wide distribution of the product, or will we see widespread controversy as the product hits shelves after its development is completed?

What is leading people to question the safety and social acceptability of the product many are calling the next level in hands-free technology?

The screen on the glasses on which users can view texts and e-mails is small, small enough to stay on the periphery of the wearer's vision most of the time. There would be relatively few circumstances in which it obstructs vision. The Glass device however is set to chime whenever text or e-mails are received, which may prompt the wearer to look into the upper right hand corner to view. This could mean several seconds of diminished focus on where they are going.

Furthermore, the device is equipped with a camera that allows users to either activate it vocally or through stroking the plastic band with their hands, both relatively inconspicuous gestures that could go unnoticed and seem relatively low-key.

This has led to some paranoia that people could be filming in public areas with the Glass. This has led to a general sense of uneasiness in some in the immediate vicinity of "Explorers."

Yesterday, a San Francisco bar initiated a ban on Google Glass devices, citing a confrontation in which patrons felt they were being filmed by a Google Glass user without their permission. The ban has spread to six other bars in the Bay Area, the question now being: what kinds of other institutions will be instituting bans to follow?

Google has given no indication of slowing down their research, which hopes to eventually bring the Google Glass at a reduced price to the public for universal consumption. Will the recent developments alter the course of the project? Or does Google plan to continue while the objections of those concerned for their privacy go unheeded?