Ocutrx Technologies, Inc., announced the launch of the OcuLenz augmented / extended reality (AR/XR) headset designed for patients with advanced macular degeneration (AMD).
Quick refresh on this company.
Founded in 2015 and based in Irvine, California, Ocutrx is a high-tech, 3D visualization company specializing in developing AR technology for medical and surgical applications.
With an ophthalmic focus—currently on AMD and Stargardt’s disease—the start up’s product line includes (aside from the new OcuLenz):
- ORLens AR/XR Headset
- CamTrx 12K 3D Digital Microscope
- MiniLenz 3D Digital Viewport
- StereoLenz 8K Auto-Stereoscopic 3D Monitor
- OR-Bot (operating as a collection of all OcuTrx products for vascular surgeons)
Now talk about the OcuLenz.
Intended for daily use, the lightweight headset operates by overlaying high-contrast, pixel-manipulated images and real-world video imagery onto a user’s remaining viable field of view.
From there, it recreates the images as an AR display customized to the user's remaining visual field, providing a fully immersive visual experience, according to OcuTrx.
What powers it?
The headset is dependent on the recently-launched Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 Platform (Qualcomm), a spatial computing platform that enables mixed reality and virtual reality (MR/VR) technology to operate in thinner and more comfort-targeted headsets (without an external battery pack).
The intended result: faster speed, efficiency, and reliability.
How does it compensate for AMD-related vision loss?
OcuLenz uses an advanced pixel manipulation software that could translate the pixels from the impaired central vision area of AMD into the “more effective peripheral vision.”
What kind of resolution does it offer?
Per the company, the headset’s optical engine delivers 2.5K resolution per eye with a wide field of view:
- 60° horizontal
- 40° vertical
- 72° diagonal
What kind of monitoring is possible?
The headset is marketed as providing fast visual field testing with “immediate results” via a digital feed, which could allow for virtual vision monitoring by an eye care professional (ECP).
Does it connect to WiFi?
Yes! It has both WiFi and cellular connectivity capabilities, and even works as a connectivity tool similar to a computer, tablet, or smartphone, according to Ocutrx.
When and where will this be available?
The company expects to commercially launch OcuLenz within the first half of 2024.
As for locations, the primary sales channels will include:
- Low-vision centers
- University hospitals
- Low-vision industry distributors
- Ocutrx website (see below)
And the cost?
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) is $6,000, according to reports. Medicare is expected to cover an estimated $1,800.
Can I preorder?
Yes you can… click here to learn more.