Eschenbach Optik of America has launched Optaro—the first video magnifier specifically designed for a smartphone.
The product was unveiled during the 2024 Vision Expo West (VEW) meeting this week.
Let’s talk about Eschenbach for a moment.
The North American subsidiary of Eschenbach Optik GmbH of Nuremberg, Germany, was founded in 1983.
Its specialty: Manufacturing and distributing a product portfolio of high-quality magnification solutions:
- Low vision aids
- Reading glasses
- Binoculars
Now this video magnifier.
As a first-of-its-kind product, Optaro attaches right to an iPhone to turn the device into a full-featured, video magnifier (ie: reading aid).
- Its target users: People with low vision
So how does this attach to an iPhone?
Via one of two ways:
- Through an integrated case that holds both the iPhone and Optaro camera module together
- Users can choose from 13 custom-fit protective cases (applying to iPhone 12 models and up)
- Via a magnetic universal stand (for most iPhone models, the company noted) that holds the module and magnetically attaches to the back of the phone.
Let’s break this module down.
Per the company, Optaro comprises three key components:
- Full high-definition (HD) camera
- Via the iPhone screen, the camera provides a 13 x 15 inch magnification and 41 mm field of view
- Camera is located under the center of the phone and automatically swivels into the reading position when the stand is folded out (so as to avoid any on-screen distortion)
- Glare-free illumination
- To guarantee a high-contrast and equally-illuminated image on screen
- Integrated stand
- This holds the iPhone at “an ergonomic angle” for a more comfortable viewing position for the user
Can I see a visual of it?
Is it battery-operated?
Yes it is—via a USB-C charging cable that comes with the module (with a 2-hour operating time and 1.5-hour charging time).
And how does this magnifier work, exactly?
Users must download the Optaro app (for free!), available from the Apple App Store.
About the app: This is used to control the camera module and enable a user to customize their reading experience, such as by:
- Adjusting magnification
- Selecting from one of 14 different color modes
- Enabling a Tell-Me function that reads groups of words aloud
So … where can I purchase this?
Eye care professionals (ECPs) can purchase directly from the Optaro product website (a 2-year warranty applies).
Buying options include:
- Optaro with iPhone case
- Optaro with universal stand
- Optaro iPhone case only
- Optaro universal stand only
To note: Pricing options vary.
Also: Optaro is not currently for sale in Canada.
And if I’m attending VEW?
We’d recommend you stop by the Eschenbach Optick of America booth (#F12030) to check out this module in person.