What does the future hold for lenses? The Smart money is on technology

“The development of smart contact lenses is fantastic and they have the potential to fundamentally alter the nature of contact lens practice.”

The words of Professor Nathan Efron (pictured), a research professor at the Queensland University of Technology, will doubtless divide the industry. There will be those who say ‘bring it on’ and embrace the next wave of gadgets and gizmos but there will also be plenty fearing the latest onslaught of hi-tech advances.

Speaking to Optician, Prof Efron highlighted the potential features of smart lenses, with several patents already filed by tech giants including Sony, Samsung and Google.

With scope for measuring blood sugar levels, recording ‘live’ video footage and even overlaying your regular field of vision with data taken from a blink-operated search engine, the lenses of the future are certainly a trip into a brave new world. 

But what does it all mean for the industry? How will it work? How can practitioners prepare themselves for a potentially seismic shift in the way they work? Who will sell the lenses? Will it be retailers or will it be the optical industry?

Addressing this last point, Prof Efron said: “This will inevitably become an issue. The contact lens profession, supported by the contact lens industry, must remain vigilant in this regard and be prepared to lobby legislators or regulatory agents of the importance of the fitting of smart lenses being overseen by eye care professionals.”

Smart lenses look set to be the main talking point when it comes to future technological advances within the optical industry. The next few years will see huge investment in this field and a breakthrough is likely to be seen as a game changer.

To find out more about all the latest research, product development and industry news, don’t miss BCLA UK at The Belfry on June 12/13. Held over two days, it promises to be the must-attend event of the year, bringing together a host of leading figures from across the contact lens industry.

With up to 44 CET points available across a range of workshops and lectures, it’s a great chance to network with senior professionals and improve your knowledge around contact lenses, giving you the chance to Maximise Your Potential.

Find out more about BCLA UK here.