Niko Eiden, the chief executive and co-founder of IXI, recently introduced revolutionary eyewear technology. This breakthrough stands to revolutionize the field of vision correction. With these new autofocus lenses, the researchers used liquid crystals to actively modulate their vision-correcting properties in real-time. This exciting technology offers a new, comfortable, convenient solution for anyone who struggles with traditional varifocals or bifocals. This groundbreaking technology is already improving public safety across 30 countries around the world. Ultimately, it aims to enrich the daily lives of patients who require accurate vision correction.
The IXI glasses feature lenses that are manipulated using an electric field, allowing users to adjust their vision without the need for multiple pairs of glasses. As Eiden demonstrated, these versatile liquid crystals themselves are able to rotate under an electrical field. With this feature, the lenses can automatically adjust to what the wearer is looking for. The design uniquely changes only designated portions of the lens. Controller mode enables wearers to quickly check the activity around the dynamic zone while keeping their peripheral awareness.
“These liquid crystals… we can rotate them with an electrical field,” stated Eiden during the presentation. He echoed the idea that consumer acceptability would be a key factor in the evolution of this technology. “Nobody wants to go around looking like a cyborg,” he continued, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a desirable balance between usability and appearance.
Paramdeep Bilkhu, clinical adviser at the College of Optometrists showcased the promising future that autofocus lenses could bring. “The ability to adjust lenses on demand could significantly improve quality of life for many people,” he asserted.
IXI’s autofocus technology has already helped nearly 100,000 people in 20 different countries gain access to high-quality vision correction. This accomplishment highlights the increasing market for eyewear technology, which is projected to continue to grow over the next few years. Joshua Silver, founder of Adlens, reflected on the significance of the historic nature of this invention. In 2013, Adlens released new types of glasses, which allowed wearers to adjust optical power themselves. All of this they accomplished with an intuitive small dial or button on the frames.
“The first lenses that we produced were horrible,” Eiden admitted, reflecting on the challenges faced during the initial development phase. Despite these initial hiccups, the current version of IXI glasses has received an overwhelmingly positive response from consumers. Rob Stevens, chief executive of Adlens, said the prototype specs retail for $1,250 (£920) in the US. Further, he claimed they were “better received by consumers.”
Of course, the feedback hasn’t all been sunshine and marshmallows. Chi-Ho To, an optometry researcher at the Brien Holden Vision Institute in Australia, warned of possible impaired vision or correction delays with the new technology. And he restored the integration of innovation across agencies. He pointed out that it needs to happen in parallel with a robust study to ensure user safety and satisfaction.
As IXI continues to develop its autofocus technology, Eiden and his team remain focused on addressing consumer concerns about aesthetics and functionality. “We have some flexibility but not full flexibility,” Eiden mentioned when discussing design options. This policy announcement builds on that commitment to ensure young consumers can trust the product they are buying will provide effective vision correction without undue risks.