Google Glass price and release date are topics both under discussion and under wraps by the tech giant, but the early developer edition of the wearable gadget has caused stir, accolades and a range of applications on the possibilities of the device.

According to Forbes, after testing the Glass in its labs, Royal Philips intends to measure consumer interest in developing a Google Glass platform for the operating room. The Dutch giant controls half of the patient monitor market worldwide.

The interest from Philips could not only widen the potential day-to-day applications of the Glass but also as Forbes noted, significantly raise its profile. Philip’s test of the device showed that Google Glass functions enough to wirelessly receive vital signs from a monitor, including heart rate, oxygen saturation and blood pressure.

As it continues to prepare the gadget for consumer release, the next update of the Google Glass, which was promised to be a monthly activity since the gadget was announced, will be its biggest yet and will inch the device closer for the broader market.

Geek.com is reporting that the expected XE10 update, which will arrive around middle of October, will bring third-party app support to the glass platform. If the rumors on the new set of updates are true, the AR lens will support Glass apps, called Glassware. It will also have custom voice commands that can be initiated with ‘OK Glass’ menu as well as developers access to motion-tracking sensors.

According to Geek.com, Google has invited developers to Googleplex to work with the Glass team to create new Glassware apps for the device. Potential Glassware app developers are ask to sign a non-disclosure agreement with the Mountain View tech giant.

The monthly updates are intended to bring the Glass closer and closer to a consumer release by improving on features, smoothing out bugs and tweaking the gadget.