Google Glass reappears with new Enterprise Edition

A new version of Google Glass is being used in businesses across the US, despite public orders shutting down two years ago.

The Enterprise Edition, launched under the internet giant's sub-brand Alphabet X, is based on the original 2012 device and is aimed exclusively at helping workers improve productivity, reports Engadget.

Google Glass appeared to be finished in 2015, when the website shut down. But Alphabet "continued to supply it to US companies like GE, Boeing DHL and AGCO".

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The Enterprise Edition has a handful of upgrades over the public version, including better battery life, wi-fi connectivity and an improved eight megapixel camera, reports The Verge.

It also comes with a detachable electronics module that can be attached to different frames, such as prescription glasses or protective goggles.

Alphabet X claims its partner GE Aviation has seen an increase in production efficiency between eight to 12 per cent since its mechanics started using the smart glasses. "They don’t have to stop work to check their binders or computer to know what to do next," it says.

Gizmodo also says medical professionals have also streamlined their work as the glasses reduce the need for paperwork by around 20 per cent, giving them "much more time with their patients."

The next phase in developing the smart glasses is to apply the device to different types of business, says Alphabet X, as well as improve integration with Google Cloud services.