Google Glass might be cool for capturing footage of your next skydiving adventure, but could it really help out your business? Google is hoping so.
The Web giant this week launched a new program, dubbed Glass at Work, aimed at pushing its high-tech specs into the enterprise environment. As part of the program, Google is soliciting the help of enterprise software developers to create new Glass-powered innovations for businesses.
"In the last year we've seen our Explorers use Glass in really inspiring and practical day-to-day ways," according to a post on the Glass Google+ page. "Something we've also noticed and are very excited about is how Explorers are using Glass to drive their businesses forward. A number of companies have already teamed up with enterprise software developers to create new ways to serve their customers and reach their business goals."
Two companies at the "forefront of exploring new possibilities with Glass" are the NHL's Washington Capitals and oilfield services firm Schlumberger, Google said. The Capitals partnered with developer APX Labs to create a new experience (pictured above) offering Glass-wearing fans "real time stats, instant replay and different camera angles" on their headset. Schlumberger, meanwhile, teamed up with the developer Wearable Intelligence on a Glass app that helps "increase safety and efficiency for their employees in the field.
Google has set up a contact form on its Glass Developers site, where interested individuals can sign up for a chance to be part of the program. The company is specifically looking to team up with developers who are currently "creating software for U.S. based enterprises."
Meanwhile, Glass is already making its way into the medical field. A San Francisco startup called Augmedix made headlines last month for its Glass app that promises to help doctors more easily access electronic health records so they can focus on what is most important: caring for patients.
A similar Glass app called MedRef, unveiled last May, uses facial recognition to help hospital employees access patient records. In addition, a doctor in Maine this past June performed the first known surgery with Google Glass in tow.
The Sacramento Kings are also using Glass.