Google Glass gets update to Android 4.4 KitKat

Google Glass will be provided with a modified version of Android 4.4 in an upcoming software update. This means, among other things, that several new functions will become available, such as bluetooth 4.0, better performance and a longer battery life.

The news was announced by Google employees on a forum that only registered developers with Glass glasses can access, Android Police writes. Google made the statements after it was delayed with a promised update to Glass. Instead of using the monthly update schedule, work is now underway on an update that brings the smart glasses from Android 4.0.3 to Android 4.4.

Although Glass runs on a modified version of the Android operating system, the new Android version brings several improvements. Compared to Android 4.0.3, Google has made several optimizations that make the software run faster and use less battery. There will also be support for bluetooth 4.0 and developers will have more APIs at their disposal.

It is still unclear when the update to Android 4.4 will be available for Glass and the precise improvements that this entails. After postponing the promised XE14 update, Google has not disclosed when it expects the next release. With the discontinuation of the monthly update cycle, Google hopes to have more time to make major changes to the Glass software. In addition to the update to Android 4.4, Google would like to work on improving the Boutique app store and expanding the Glass Development Kit.