A revolutionary contact lens can now monitor eye pressure and movement with eyes closed, offering real-time data for early detection of diseases like glaucoma and enabling continuous, at-home eye health tracking.
In a major leap for wearable health tech, scientists from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China have developed a groundbreaking smart contact lens that monitors eye pressure and movement—even when the eyes are shut. The research introduces a stretchable bimodal contact lens (BCL) that combines comfort, accuracy, and real-time wireless data transmission.
This lens is designed to track intraocular pressure (IOP) and eye movement (EM), two key indicators in diagnosing and managing eye diseases like glaucoma. Glaucoma affects over a billion people globally and is often difficult to detect early due to its gradual and silent progression, especially during sleep when most current devices fail.
What sets this smart lens apart is its dual-sensing capability, enabled by integrated capacitive and magnetic sensors. Built from five layers of advanced materials—including flexible copper coils and a neodymium magnetic film—the lens offers a snug, natural fit while maintaining clear vision. In animal tests, it could detect pressure changes as subtle as 1 mmHg, and in lab and human trials, it achieved over 97% accuracy in EM detection.
Data from the lens is sent wirelessly to mobile devices via a special glasses-mounted Tesla meter, allowing continuous monitoring and real-time alerts. Biocompatibility tests confirmed that the lens is safe for long-term use, with no signs of irritation or visual disturbance.
This smart lens not only helps monitor glaucoma progression but could also assist in diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases, attention disorders, and tracking sleep quality through EM patterns. Its wireless, wearable design promotes at-home use and telemedicine, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits. Researchers believe future versions could even include drug delivery features, turning the lens into a full diagnostic and treatment tool.
