Alcon, Google Partner for Smart Lens Technology

Alcon, the eye care division of Basel, Switzerland-based Novartis AG, has struck an agreement with Google to develop a disease-monitoring contact lens.

Google’s research laboratory, Google[x], will collaborate with Alcon on a “smart lens” technology by embedding noninvasive sensors, microchips and other miniaturized electronics into a contact lens. The project’s goal is to enhance the mapping and prevention of disease within the body.

The technology will be focused in the areas of diabetes and presbyopia. The smart lens will help diabetic patients manage their disease by providing a continuous, minimally invasive measurement of the body’s glucose levels as the device measures tear fluid in the eye. To combat presbyopia, the smart lens will provide accommodative vision correction to help restore the eye’s natural autofocus.