Eyedaptic is introducing EYE7, its newest generation of smart glasses embedded with artificial intelligence (AI) and designed to enhance vision in patients with retinal diseases
First, a look at Eyedaptic.
Specializing in vision-enhancement technology, the privately-held company’s products are designed with wearable vision aid software enabled by AI and augmented reality (AR) hardware.
This proprietary Simulated Natural Vision Software works by optimizing a patient’s functional (remaining) peripheral vision via pixel manipulation, “simulating” clearer vision.
- The intent: To give patients an improved quality of life with a hands-free, easy-to-wear glasses design (take a look at the clinical research supporting the tech).
Which patients is this technology designed for?
The company is currently targeting patients diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR).
And that software is included in these smart glasses?
Indeed. In fact, it’s included in Eyedaptic's entire line of AI-enhanced eyewear: the EYE5, EYE6—and now the EYE7.
Among the features of these glasses:
- Lightweight design (weighing in at less than 3 oz)
- Facial detection capabilities
- Auto-zoom mode for viewing text in various situations
- Contrast enhancement controls (for additional image enhancements)
- 2-in-1 wearable and hand-held magnifier
- EyeSwitch technology
As a side note: Prior iterations of the company’s products also encompassing this patented technology include the EYE2, EYE3, and EYE4.
Are they cleared by the FDA?
According to Eyedaptic, its smart glasses are Class I exempt medical devices—meaning they present minimal harm risk and do not require premarket notification or approval (such as a 510[k] clearance).
To note, however: We were unable to locate regulatory documentation confirming the glasses’ status in the FDA product classification database.
So! Do these glasses include prescriptions?
They do. They can accommodate changing prescriptions and adjustable prescription inserts.
As a bonus: The Eyedaptic glasses can also be worn over a patient’s existing glasses, if preferred.
Is there a difference between the EYE5 and EYE6 glasses?
There is … see here for more details on the EYE6, which launched in 2024 as an upgraded version of the EYE5.
A key differentiator: Its use of a generative visual assistant dubbed Ivy, available in 99 languages and designed to help users with basic, daily tasks (reading, locating objects, and describing their environment).
- See more on the glasses’ one-size-fits-all design and usability, including requiring a remote-control phone connection.
- Also check out the accessories that come with all Eyedaptic glasses.
Alrighty, now to the EYE7.
This latest iteration of smart glasses features a lighter-weight, sleeker design and even more vision enhancement capabilities than those included in the EYE5 or EYE6, including:
- An ergonomic design for extended daily wear
- Customizable visual modes with intuitive controls
- A longer battery life
Check out the video below for Eyedaptic’s rundown on what to expect from the EYE7.
I heard mention of a new virtual assistant …
Indeed. A major addition to the EYE7 is also its visual assistant: Eva.
Eva is part of the new Eyedaptic Virtual Assistant Family platform—which also features the EYE6’s Ivy virtual assistant—that the company is also launching.
Tell me more about this.
EYE7 wearers can choose between Ivy or Eva as their visual assistant, with the latter offering slightly more capabilities than the former. Among them:
- Visual interpretation and object recognition
- Reading text, signage, and computers screens
- Web-enabled searches for current information
- Real-time voice control for hands-free operation
- Conversational in 99+ languages
So how can the assistants be added?
Via a remote software upgrade (without requiring new hardware).
But take note: Ivy is currently being offered with the EYE7 through an Early Access Beta Program, allowing users to test its capabilities and offer feedback for Eyedaptics’s “visual assistant roadmap.”
Duly noted. Now, how can I get a hold of the EYE7?
Click here to request more information (including pricing) on the product.
And for current Eyedaptic users looking to upgrade their glasses to the EYE7: Contact the company’s support team.
- Word to the wise, however: The Eyedaptic glasses are not covered by insurance, though the company also noted that “provisions to reimburse part of the cost of low vision aids” may be available through VSP Vision and the Department of Veteran Affairs.