There was a drone rodeo. A virtual aquarium with humpback whales swimming around overhead, projected on huge overhead OLED screens. A Toyota concept car that gets to know you and uses artificial intelligence to become “the driver’s best partner.” There were hundreds of robots milling around, some even boogieing to music.

And there was eyewear, too. In fact, eyewear was everywhere at CES 2017. The massive consumer electronics show, held during the first week of January, has become a launchpad for a broad assortment of eyeglasses and other vision products. They ranged from virtual reality (VR) goggles and smart glasses with augmented reality (AR) features to sunglasses equipped with video cameras, night vision goggles, eye tracking diagnostic systems, assistive devices, eye testing technology and more.

Dozens of companies showcased VR systems. Smart glasses with augmented reality capabilities are much in evidence, with industry leaders such as Vuzix and ODG showcasing an array of new products, many designed for specialized uses in the workplace.

Frames and sunwear outfitted with high-definition video cameras were also on display from companies such as Sunnycam and PogoTec, a startup that is partnering with FGX International, ClearVision Optical, Argus Vision and Vista Eyewear.

Safilo Group, in partnership with a tech company called Interaxon, introduced SafiloX, featuring “a brain-sensing eyewear platform” that “helps consumers find their ‘flow’ through beautiful designer frames.” The sunglasses work in conjunction with a smartphone app that monitors your brain activity. (That’s me modeling it above.)

Several companies also featured products designed for eyeglass wearers or those who may need vision correction. For example, RightEye showcased an eye tracking system that optometrists can use to diagnose children with reading problems. Another startup, EyeQue, rolled out a $30 scope that enables a smartphone to perform a refractive test. Two companies, Eyejust and Reticare, showcased blue light filters for digital devices. And Fuel3D debuted a facial scanning system that optical retailers can use in conjunction with 3D printing to produce personalized eyeglass frames.

These are just a few examples of the diverse range of optical products that were on display at CES 2017 and the exciting collaborations developing between the tech and optical worlds.
Andrew Karp
Group Editor, Lenses and Technology
[email protected]






















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