Buzz has it that Google's latest moonshot project might open some eyes to new possibilities, with the Internet giant coming up with the smart contact lens. Still a very niche project within the healthcare spectrum, the Internet giant's acclaimed Google X Research Unit has managed to top itself again with the initiative. However, it must be noted that the smart contact lens must not be confused with Google's soon-to-be consumer-friendly Glass.
The smart contact lens has been designed specifically for people diagnosed with diabetes, cited to afflict one in every 19 people worldwide to measure glucose levels in tears. It hosts a tiny wireless chip and miniaturized glucose sensor, both of which are embedded between two layers of soft contact lens material.
The project's co-founders, Brian Otis and Babak Parviz highlighted the motivations behind developing the same in an official blog post. "Glucose levels change frequently with normal activity like exercising or eating or even sweating. Sudden spikes or precipitous drops are dangerous and not uncommon, requiring round-the-clock monitoring. Although some people wear glucose monitors with a glucose sensor embedded under their skin, all people with diabetes must still prick their finger and test drops of blood throughout the day. It’s disruptive, and it’s painful. And, as a result, many people with diabetes check their blood glucose less often than they should." read the blog.
Google is already moving forward into the testing phase and is in talks with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, while also seeking partners to bring the smart contact lens to market. The smart contact lens is still a long way off from mass production. |  |
