Google is relying on the channel to make a success of the second iteration of its Glass augmented reality headset - aiming the device at enteprise customers via expert partners.
The new Google Glass Enterprise Edition, announced today, boasts a number of design and hardware improvements over its predecessor - which Google said results in increased comfort, more power and longer battery life.
Back in 2014, the company released the original Google Glass Explorer Edition to general consumers - but the headset failed to take off and was discontinued just a year later.
This time, however, Google has placed its focus on verticals like manufacturing and logistics, marketing Glass 2.0 as a way to boost productivity and save money. Google is currently offering Glass via more than ten industry partners across these verticals.
More than 50 companies including Volkswagen, Boeing Company, Agco, Dignity Health and DHL are now using Glass as part of a special program.
Agricultural equipent manufacturer Agco has been using Glass for two years already, cutting factory inspection times by a third and training staff 300% faster.
"Workers in many fields, like manufacturing, logistics, field services, and healthcare find it useful to consult a wearable device for information and other resources while their hands are busy," Jay Kothari, project lead for Glass, said.
"That's why we've spent the last two years working closely with a network of more than 30 expert partners to build customised software and business solutions for Glass for people in these fields."
Google Glass Enterprise Edition has already enabled a number of businesses to improve productivity, the tech giant added, with many reporting a reduction in human errors and efficiency gains of up to 10%.
