While you might not consider the future of glass to prove very exciting, you probably should take a look at some of the ideas coming in the near future.

Nearly every area of consumer electronics for example will experience the changes coming with glass. One of the items in the future of glass involves special glasses that use mirrors and glass in unique ways.

These glasses project a computer display on to the lens in front of one eye much like the ‘heads up’ display utilized by fighter pilots today. Along with this, artificial intelligence and wireless connections allows you to bring up information, send messages by voice, and even take photos by blinking your eyes.

Part of the potential future of glass has to do with major breakthroughs in cost, function, and quality of glass. For example, Microsoft currently plans to develop computer displays on flat surfaces such as kitchen countertops. Another aspect of the future of glass involves wall-size displays in your home.

These computer displays will also be see-through if current research becomes future reality.

As far back as 2006, the future of glass loomed large. At that time, Apple Corporation leaders didn’t like the plastic being used as displays on their phones. It scratched easily. But glass seemed too fragile for constant use.

Corning partnered with Apple to meet the future of glass. It developed what is now called Gorilla Glass. This type of glass now covers mobile devices and functions well.

Gorilla Glass 2, another result of the future of glass, is now 20% lighter but is stronger. This allows smartphones and tablets to become thinner and lighter while remaining durable.

Another part of the future of glass also comes from Corning. This new glass is both flexible and thin, manufactured on rollers much as plastic is made. It still retains the scratch resistance and heat resistance of glass.

Tiny mobile phones and wall-size touch displays will utilize this technology soon.

Yet another promising aspect of the future of glass is the development of technology that kills viruses and bacteria, including the antibiotic resistant bacteria that are so threatening.

A non-shiny, non-glare product makes up another aspect of the future of glass. This type of glass has a surface pattern of nano-scale cones. Called multifunctional glass, it also deflects water. It could make windshield wipers obsolete. Interestingly, this kind of glass also would be essentially self-cleaning.

While they don’t have anything to do with these aspects of the future of glass, when you have any other glass need, call FEDERAL GLASS AND MIRROR at 508-872-3563. Mike and John Purpura have a long family history of excellence in many types of glass replacement and installation.