The original Google Glass was a bit of a passion project for Google, but despite having plenty of media coverage it never really took off. And for those waiting for a full retail version of the device might be waiting a bit longer, if a new report from the Wall Street Journal is any indicator. According to that information, Google is planning on offering a new version of Google Glass, which looks quite different from the original version, to certain industries, including to those within healthcare, energy and manufacturing. The report indicates that Google has plans to provide the new Glass wearable to software developers ahead of a fall launch to these industries, so that applications and services can be built for the wearable before anyone actually starts using them. The report also indicates that the device will actually work with a button-and-hinge system, which will allow the small computer to be attached to a pair of glasses at whim. It will also feature beefier specs inside: As it stands right now, Google has yet to comment on the report, but considering the quiet rollout to certain individuals, that’s not surprising. However, the initial story does indicate that Google is still committed to launching a consumer version of the device at some point down the road, but that’s, at the very least, still a year away. Earlier this year, it was reported that Google Glass had been removed from the Google Project X labs and given a proper place within Google’s research wings. That, along with the fact that Tony Fadell had taken over the project, led many to believe Google had taken a very serious approach to the wearable, and that a consumer version of the device was right around the corner. Unfortunately, it appears we’re still waiting a bit. Are you excited to see a new version of Glass?
