Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 Connectivity Problem Solution

Smart glasses such as the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 have revolutionized field operations, training, and real‑time collaboration. However, when the device struggles to connect—whether over Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, or its built‑in USB port—it can bring a workflow to a halt. Below is a detailed, step‑by‑step guide to diagnosing and resolving the most common connectivity problems on the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2.

Understanding the Connectivity Architecture

The Glass Enterprise Edition 2 relies on several layers of connectivity:

• Wi‑Fi – Used for internet access, cloud services, and device management.
• Bluetooth 4.0 LE – Allows pairing with external devices such as handheld controllers or audio peripherals.
• USB‑C – Provides data transfer and charging capability.
• Software stack – The Android‑based operating system, network drivers, and the Glass Enterprise Platform (GEP) services.

When a connectivity issue arises, it often originates from one of these layers. Knowing where to start will save time.

Common Connectivity Symptoms

Before You Begin: Gather Essentials

• A stable internet connection on a separate device (phone or laptop).
• The latest Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 firmware (check on the GEP portal).
• A replacement USB‑C cable (preferably an original or MFi‑approved cable).
• A spare Bluetooth controller or headset for testing.
• Access to the GEP console for policy and network settings.
• A note‑taking app or pen to record error codes and logs.

Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting

1. Verify Physical Connections

1. Inspect the USB‑C port – Look for dust or bent pins. Gently clean with a dry brush if needed.
2. Swap the cable – Try a different USB‑C cable. A faulty cable is a common culprit.
3. Test the port on another device – Connect a phone or tablet to confirm the port works.

If the port works on other devices, the issue likely lies within the Glass itself.

2. Check Wi‑Fi Settings

1. Open the Settings app – Navigate to “Network & Internet” → “Wi‑Fi.”
2. Scan for networks – Ensure the desired SSID appears and that the Glass can see it.
3. Forget and reconnect – Tap the network, choose “Forget,” then reconnect using the password.
4. Verify IP address – After reconnection, open a browser and navigate to any site. If it fails, the device may not be obtaining an IP.

Common Wi‑Fi Issues and Fixes

3. Reboot and Soft Reset

1. Standard reboot – Hold the power button until the screen goes blank, then press it again to restart.
2. Soft reset – While on the home screen, tap the status bar to open the quick settings. Tap the gear icon, scroll to “About,” and select “Factory reset.” NOTE: This erases all data; back up before proceeding.

A fresh reboot often clears transient driver bugs.

4. Update Firmware and Software

1. Check firmware version – In Settings → “About” → “Software Version.”
2. Download the latest firmware from the GEP portal.
3. Install via USB‑C – Connect the Glass to a computer, open a terminal, and run the provided update script.
4. Verify after reboot – Ensure the version number matches the latest release.

Firmware updates frequently include bug fixes for connectivity modules.

5. Reset Network Settings

1. Navigate to Settings → “System” → “Reset options.”
2. Select “Reset Wi‑Fi, mobile & Bluetooth.”
3. Confirm – This will wipe all network profiles, forcing a clean slate.
4. Reconnect – Pair Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, and USB connections anew.

6. Test Bluetooth Pairing

1. Enable Bluetooth on the Glass – Settings → “Bluetooth.”
2. Place the external controller in pairing mode (refer to its manual).
3. Scan for devices – The controller should appear.
4. Pair – If the pairing fails, try restarting both devices.

Common Bluetooth Hiccups

7. Inspect USB‑C Drivers on the Host

When the Glass is connected to a computer, the host must recognize it as a “USB Mass Storage” or “Android Debug Bridge” device.

1. Open Device Manager (Windows) or System Information (macOS).
2. Locate the device – It may appear under “Portable Devices” or “Other Devices” with a warning icon.
3. Update drivers – Right‑click, choose “Update driver,” and let the system search automatically.
4. Install ADB drivers if you plan to use developer tools.

If drivers remain unrecognized, test with a different computer.

8. Analyze Logs for Error Codes

1. Enable logging – In Settings → “Developer options,” toggle “Show USB debugging” and “Enable USB debugging.”
2. Connect via USB‑C and run adb logcat on a terminal.
3. Look for tags such as WifiManager, BluetoothAdapter, or USBHost.
4. Cross‑reference error codes with Google’s troubleshooting documentation.

9. Network Policy and Firewall Checks

Enterprise environments often impose strict network rules.

1. Access the GEP console – Navigate to “Device Management” → “Device Policies.”
2. Verify Wi‑Fi SSID – Ensure the Glass is listed and not blocked.
3. Check proxy settings – If a corporate proxy is required, configure it in Settings → “Proxy.”
4. Test connectivity – Use a simple HTTP request (curl or browser) to confirm access to external servers.

If the Glass cannot reach the GEP portal, contact your network admin to adjust firewall rules.

10. Advanced: Reset the Network Stack

For stubborn problems that persist after all previous steps:

1. Boot into recovery mode – Power off, then press and hold the “Volume Down” + “Power” buttons simultaneously until the recovery menu appears.
2. Select “Wipe data/factory reset” – This erases all data but preserves the OS image.
3. Reinstall the latest firmware as described in step 4.

This action should be considered a last resort due to data loss.

Preventive Measures and Best Practices

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check the current IP address on the Glass?

Open Settings → “Network & Internet” → “Wi‑Fi.” Tap the connected network; the IP address will be displayed.

My Glass cannot access the GEP console. What could be wrong?

Verify that the device’s MAC address is registered in the GEP portal and that the network allows outbound HTTPS traffic on port 443.

Why does the USB‑C connection lose power after a few minutes?

Check the cable’s data lines and power pins for damage. If the cable is fine, the issue may stem from the host’s USB power management settings. Disable “USB selective suspend” on Windows.

Can I use the Glass with a 5 GHz Wi‑Fi network?

No. The Glass Enterprise Edition 2 only supports 2.4 GHz networks. Use a dual‑band router and connect to the 2.4 GHz band.

Is it safe to use third‑party Bluetooth headphones with the Glass?

Yes, as long as the headphones support Bluetooth 4.0 LE and the Glass can pair with them. Some older headphones may use proprietary profiles incompatible with the Glass.

Closing Thoughts

Connectivity is the lifeblood of any wearable device, and the Google Glass Enterprise Edition 2 is no exception. By systematically checking physical connections, verifying network settings, updating firmware, and reviewing logs, most problems can be resolved quickly. Remember that enterprise environments add layers of complexity—firewalls, proxy servers, and device policies can all influence connectivity. Keeping the device’s software current and documenting network configurations will dramatically reduce downtime. Armed with these troubleshooting steps, users can keep their smart glasses performing at peak efficiency.