The American innovation model—built on risk, investment, and consumer demand—has spawned countless technological marvels. Yet it’s also fertile ground for spectacular failures. In our "U.S. Inventions" section, we dissect why products backed by millions failed to conquer the market. Was the flaw in the technology itself? A misread of consumer needs? Poor timing? Or corporate politics? From automotive disasters to doomed gadgets and software, we break down case studies to extract hard-won lessons for today’s innovators and entrepreneurs.
Product: Google Glass (Explorer Edition)
Company: Google
Country: USA
Period: ~2012-2015 (consumer version)
Essence: Wearable computer in the form of glasses with a HUD, camera, and voice control.
An innovative gadget that failed in the consumer market due to privacy concerns, social acceptance issues, price, functionality, and design. Refocused on the corporate segment.