Eyedaptic has launched the EYE6 with Ivy, a next-generation pair of smart glasses featuring an interactive, artificial intelligence (AI)-based visual assistant for patients diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Let’s start with this company.
Founded in 2016 and based in Laguna Beach, California, Eyedaptic is a privately owned vision-enhancement solutions company that has developed a proprietary “vision enhancing” software intended to stimulate a person's natural vision.
And who are the target patients?
The technology is geared toward those with visual impairment caused by retinal diseases—specifically, macular degeneration (AMD).
The company has also noted that its technology’s efficacy may be decreased for patients with dense cataracts or other retinal diseases—aside from AMD—that involve degraded vision.
And how is it doing this?
Via two current forms of noninvasive eyewear devices to be worn like glasses:
- EYE5 glasses
- Designed to optimize a user’s functional peripheral across a wide range of use situations via a small embedded camera that captures a user’s environment
- EYE6 glasses (our topic of choice)
Their purpose: To serve as comfortable eyewear for patients diagnosed with AMD and (in the case of EYE5) diabetic retinopathy (DR).
- Note: Previous patented versions of these glasses included the EYE2, EYE3, and EYE4.
How easy are these devices to use?
Per Eyedaptic, each device is designed to be “very simple and user friendly.”
As for usability: The smart glasses must be connected to a remote-control phone and feature a few different settings (including an automatic mode) that can be easily selected via the click of a single button.
- And for size: Both smart glasses are intended to be “one size fits all” and fit over a pair of glasses.
- Note: Each model does include adjustable nose pieces for individual fit and comfort.
Let’s zero in on the EYE6.
The EYE6 is described as “revolutionary augmented reality (AR) glasses for vision loss” that features multimodal generative AI visual assistance.
Its capabilities:
- Interactive text and image analysis
- Via OpenAI-powered large language models (LLMs)
- Optimizes remaining vision across various scenarios
Plus: Similar to the EYE5, the EYE6 also includes a compact, built-in camera that captures and provides an upgraded visual of a user’s environment—all with a voice-controlled, hands-free operation.
And this AI component?
The EYE6’s generative visual assistant is dubbed Ivy.
- Fun fact: Ivy is programmed to be fluent in 99+ languages, assisting users with such daily tasks as reading, locating objects, and describing their environment.
Watch how it works.
Talk EYE6 features.
The EYE6 comes with all of the same features as the EYE5, including:
- Lightweight design (under 3 oz)
- 1080p full high-definition (HD) displays
- 3-hour battery life (for extended wearability)
- Enhanced vision with AR smart glasses + adaptive, patented natural vision software
Note: Users with the EYE5 smart glasses can also gain access to the IVY virtual assistant via a remote upgrade.
Nice! But what if a user’s vision changes while wearing the device?
Not to worry, assures the company.
Due to the technology’s ability to zoom into text (making edges crisper and lighting bolder and brighter), “the addition of minimal prescription in our eyewear will likely be unnecessary,” Eyedaptics stated. This also applies if a person’s vision worsens due to their retinal pathology.
- One stipulation, though: “If you are prescription dependent prior to using our technology, there may be a chance you will need prescription inserts in our glasses, which is something we can easily provide, and can be adjusted over time,” the company noted.
Noted! So are these devices FDA approved?
Eyedaptic noted that its technology is classified as an FDA Class I Exempt medical device.
- Note: This level of classification indicates a device offers minimal potential for harm to a user.
Any clinical data to support these devices?
Three case studies involving two patients (aged 74 and 81) diagnosed with AMD and one with Stargardt disease (aged 20) demonstrated the visual advantages of wearing the smart glasses for everyday activities .
Based on the collected datasets from these case studies, Eyedaptic noted improved visual acuity (VA) improvements, among other notable advantages.
- Note: These case studies are not randomized clinical trials.
Watch testimonials from two clinical professionals supporting the use of these devices.
So how can I try the EYE6?
Current users of the EYE5 can contact Eyedaptic’s support team to upgrade to the EYE6 with Ivy. For new potential users, reach out to the company.
Special note: The new EYE6 with Ivy glasses will be officially introduced at the American Retina Forum National meeting on Aug. 7 in Carlsbad, California.