Google, Inc. is officially teaming up with VSP Global to bring Google Glass to a vision plan near you.
The Mountain View, Calif.-based technology giant said Tuesday that it will work with VSP Global to offer Google Glass prescription lenses and frames at a subsidized price, a Google spokeswoman confirmed to Employee Benefit News.
While only a few thousand currently have access to Google Glass, its computerized eye wear product, Google said that it is moving towards a wider consumer launch later in 2014. Media reports highlight that this could spark sales in the eye-care industry by allowing access to the trendy new piece of eye-wear.
According to the search engine giants website, Google Glass is only available through The Glass Explorer program, which allows the company to choose users. Currently, the application form notes that Google is expanding little by little, and experimenting with different ways of bringing new Explorers into the program.
Today, Google confirms that the Explorer program will still be used to help individuals to gain access, but is now allowing prescription lenses to be offered. It also reports that eye-care professionals will be trained across the U.S. on Google Glass fittings. These training sessions have already occurred in New York, San Francisco and Los Angeles with plans to expand on that in the months ahead.
Google also notes that it is working with VSP Vision Care to permit its members to receive reimbursements on Glass up to the frame allowance provided within their current vision benefit.
Currently, VSP Global, which includes VSP Vision Care boasts the largest not-for-profit vision benefits and services in the country with over 60 million covered members. Through its programs VSP Mobil Eyes and Sight for Students, VSP says on its website that it has invested nearly $160 million free eyecare and eyewear for close to 860,000 adults and children.
Additionally, Google said Tuesday that four new Google Glass frames, including Bold, Curve, Thin and Split options that make up The Titanium Collection, were now available. The company statement lists that it looked at the industry and all the styles that people love.
Costs will range for $225 for the frames and $150 for the shades, but users are asked to check with their health benefits to see if any costs can be defrayed by their coverage options.
