VSP deal with Google Glass ‘intact’

It was just a year ago that VSP Global and Google, Inc. teamed up to offer Google Glass prescription lenses and frames at a subsidized price through VSP Vision Care benefit plans. But Google Glass’s announcement last week that it was halting sales of the product raises questions about VSP’s future role.

VSP Global, however, says nothing has changed in light of Google’s announcement. “We have a longstanding collaborative relationship with Google, providing them with access to expertise and counsel across all facets of the optical industry,” a VSP Global spokesperson tells EBN. “Our current relationship remains intact and we’re excited to see the next phase of the Glass program.”

Also see: Benefits pros cautious about workplace implications of Google Glass

Google announced in a blog post last Thursday it was closing its Explorer Program through which the glasses could be purchased, with Monday marking the last day consumers could get their hands on the Glass Explorer Edition. “In the meantime, we’re continuing to build for the future, and you’ll start to see future versions of Glass when they’re ready,” the company wrote.

VSP network providers continue to serve as the exclusive partners in properly fitting and prescribing Glass lenses, while VSPOne labs remain the preferred facilities to process lens orders for Glass devices, according to VSP Global. Moreover, accessories for the product – including the DVF Made for Glass collection with Marchon Eyewear licensor Diane von Furstenberg – will still be available for sale through Google.

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