Before the end of the year, Google is releasing an update to vastly increase the functionality of Google Glass. Among the new additions are the ability to upload recorded videos directly to YouTube, support for Google Hangouts, and a more secure way to unlock the device. Support for an incoming iOS companion app was also added.

One of those features, however, may receive some unwanted attention from those already wary of privacy concerns with Glass. The update brings with it the option to take photos by simply winking. You’ll no longer need to hold your hand to the device or utter a command — just a simple quick wink will do the trick. But while privacy is definitely a concern, Google believes that the feature could bring numerous conveniences in the future when expanded. “”Imagine a day where you’re riding in the back of a cab and you just wink at the meter to pay. You wink at a pair of shoes in a shop window and your size is shipped to your door. You wink at a cookbook recipe and the instructions appear right in front of you.”

If Google can expand Glass’ functionality to that point in the future, and somehow navigate the privacy concerns associated with the device, the future of Glass is extremely bright.

[via Google]