Xpaneco’s intelligent contact lenses to facilitate 3D experiences without the need for VR headsets.
A technology firm based in Dubai presents its latest models of smart contact lenses at GITEX Global 2024.
Xpaneco, an innovative technology enterprise located in Dubai, unveiled its newest models for smart contact lenses during GITEX Global 2024. The goal of the company is to shape the future of computing by utilizing intelligent contact lenses that amalgamate various applications, health tracking, and oversight functionalities into one cohesive extended reality platform.
The prototypes presented include:
- Smart Contact Lens for 3D Imaging: Enables users to see and engage with 3D visuals without the need for glasses.
- Smart Contact Lens for Data Reading: Exhibits the capability for wireless data transmission directly via the lens.
- Smart Contact Lens for AR Vision: Provides excellent image resolution with low power usage of 1-3 microwatts.
- Smart Contact Lens with Intraocular Pressure Sensor: Demonstrates a 50% enhancement in measuring this value, vital for early glaucoma detection.
Xpaneco intends to trial a fully operational smart contact lens prototype by the conclusion of 2026. The existing prototypes showcase individual features that will eventually be consolidated into one device.
Obstacles in developing VR contact lenses
The creation of VR contact lenses encounters considerable technical hurdles. The technology must be further compacted and powered within the eye. Moreover, such contact lenses require approval from medical entities like the FDA, which can often take several years based on prior experiences.
An earlier initiative by the startup Mojo Vision aimed at developing a smart contact lens was suspended in 2023 despite significant investments and progressive prototypes. The explanation given was a shortage of investors within a challenging economic landscape.
Experts believe the technology behind VR contact lenses is a distant prospect and will linger in the domain of science fiction for the time being. Nevertheless, companies like Xpaneco illustrate that research and advancement in this area remain actively pursued.
