TTP needs a style upgrade to ditch the Roy Orbison look but the Cambridge UK technology innovator’s augmented reality glasses beat Google’s for functionality according to a leading futurologist.

Now TTP reveals that it is already working on a new iteration with a ‘killer’ style solution to make their version the most fashionable on the High Street.

TTP’s news release said that, for the first time, its new augmented reality technology made it possible to create head-mounted displays that looked like conventional glasses and use transparent, curved lenses that do not obstruct the wearer’s field of view.

It added that by using simple low-power, miniature projector optics mounted in the temple arms, there was no need for bulky and unaesthetic frames that characterised the initial crop of early augmented reality (AR) head-up displays and spectacles. Unfortunately the accompanying image looked like a clash of glasses between Vic Reeves acting the goat and Roy Orbison.

Pearson said: “The TTP technology is what is needed. I have written a number of times about augmented reality and having a tiny bit of your field of view acting as a display just isn't enough – nor, obviously are opaque glasses or heavy ones.

“The Google ones seem inadequate. Lightweight semitransparent ones that can do a wrap around display are essential. There will be a number of manufacturers bringing them out over the next six months.

“I would say, though, that TTP needs a better designer – from the image they supplied they don't look at all cool. The Google ones look a lot better even though rubbish by comparison functionally.”

A TTP spokesperson responded: “The current design is a prototype and not designed for cool but to demonstrate the potential to replace normal glasses. The technology is transparent and can be incorporated into curved lenses unlike all the other current options.

“Through miniaturisation and manufacturing techniques there is no reason to believe they could not look like a normal pair of glasses in the future. Some people may be happy wearing Google-style glasses but we can’t see that many folk walking down the high street with them and their solution is no good if you already need to wear glasses. There will more announcements as the technology develops.”

• PHOTOGRAPH SHOWS: TTP’s AR glasses