Google Glass 2 Arrives For Businesses, Consumers Will Have To Wait: Report

Google Glass 2 has arrived -- sort of. Google is in the process of distributing the head-worn computer primarily to businesses, according to the Wall Street Journal.

This time around, the metal frame is gone and in its place is a hinge system so it can be mounted to different glasses, sources told the WSJ. But overall, its rectangular shape is similar to the first model. In lieu of a big launch, Google is taking a quieter approach by targeting businesses and developers that can build software to use in various industries, such as healthcare and manufacturing.

When Google Glass launched in 2013, it was limited to 8,000 people who could purchase the wearable computer for $1,500 dollars. A year later, it opened up Glass purchases to anyone in the United States. At launch, the Glass prompted some backlash from privacy-conscious consumers due to its built-in camera. It prompted some businesses, such as restaurants and theaters, to ban the headset from their properties. State senators also introduced bills in Illinois, Delaware, New Jersey and West Virginia, aimed at banning smart glasses while driving.

In January, Google halted the sales of Glass and sent it back to the drawing board under Nest founder and Apple iPod creator, Tony Fadell. Though its public program was halted, some Google Glass owners continue to wear the device. During that time, Google also continued to provide support for businesses that were experimenting with ways to use Glass.

The new model of Google Glass is expected to come with a low-power Intel chip, better battery life and support for an external battery pack according to the Journal report. But a consumer model isn’t expected to go on sale for at least a year.