Google is pitching the new version exclusively to businesses. A new consumer version is at least a year away, the people familiar with the matter said.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Google hopes to skirt privacy issues with the current model, because it will be used mostly in private workplaces. Surgeons used the initial version during procedures, either to get advice from colleagues remotely or to instruct medical students. Field workers tested it while fixing expensive machinery with help from co-workers back at headquarters.

Google doesn't plan to officially launch the new version, the people said, a far cry from the skydivers who brought the first version to a Google conference in 2012. Instead, Google is distributing the new model to software developers creating programs to use the device in business settings. The goal is to have businesses using the device by fall, the people said.

The new model has a faster Intel processor, improved battery life of as long as two hours and improved wireless connectivity, the people said. A number of various designs could be found in our Patently Mobile Google Archives such as these two: One and Two.

Google's Tony Fadell volunteered to take over the Glass project back in January. Of course Mr. Fadell had success with Apple's iPod and then opening his own company called Nest that created the smart thermostat. Will he be able to turn the Glass product around? Only time will tell. 

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