Breakthrough Restores Partial Vision to Blind Patients with Novel Eye Implant and smart Glasses
In a landmark achievement for vision restoration, several dozen patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration (AMD)-a leading cause of blindness-have regained some central vision thanks to a surgically implanted device paired with smart glasses. Results from a clinical trial published Monday in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrate that patients were able to see well enough to perform tasks like reading books and completing crossword puzzles.
AMD progressively destroys cells in the center of the retina, and currently has no cure. The new technology utilizes a 2-by-2-millimeter device containing tiny photovoltaic solar panels, implanted under the retina.the device works in conjunction with camera-equipped smart glasses that transmit zoomed-in images to the implant using near-infrared light. The implant then converts this light into electrical signals,stimulating the optic nerve in a way that mimics natural retinal function.
The study began with 38 patients receiving the retinal implant, with 32 completing a full year of observation. At the one-year mark, 26 of those 32 participants-an 80 percent success rate-demonstrated improved vision compared to thier baseline.While the restored vision is currently limited to blurry, black-and-white images, researchers not involved in the study have hailed the results as “amazing,” according to The New York Times.
The technology is developed by Science Corporation, founded by Max Hodak, who also cofounded neuralink in 2016 with Elon Musk. Science Corporation acquired the implant technology from Pixium Vision in 2024, after the French company faced financial difficulties following a decade of advancement. This rescue mirrors a similar situation with Second Sight Medical, whose vision prosthesis technology was also acquired by another startup, allowing its clinical trial to continue.
