Google discontinues production of Google Glass Enterprise Edition

Once, Google Glass was an exceptionally innovative device, birthed a decade ago from the enigmatic Google X laboratory. Alas, it could also be considered an unsuccessful venture, as its exorbitant cost and relatively limited functionality deterred the average consumer. In 2017, Google pivoted the Glass towards commercial applications, launching the Google Glass Enterprise Edition. In 2019, the company even released an updated Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2, featuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon XR SoC.

Ordinarily, one would anticipate a new iteration of Google Glass; however, according to reports from Liliputing and 9to5Google, Google has ceased production of the Enterprise Edition 2. An official announcement on their website confirms the cessation of sales on March 15th, 2023, with service support extended until September 15th, a mere six months later.

Google asserts that the pre-installed Meet on Glass application will remain functional, though support will be discontinued after September 15th. Existing server-based system images will be preserved until April 1st, 2024, enabling users to update or flash firmware until that date. Regrettably, Google has no plans for future updates, even in the event of discovered vulnerabilities or errors.

While Google Glass has indeed been discontinued, is Google’s exploration of AR/VR truly at an end? Based on previous reports, Google has participated in the development of Samsung XR devices, which suggests that the company may potentially apply its expertise to create a spiritual successor to Google Glass.