The prospect of being able to view these things on a heads-up display and still see the surrounding environment is exciting because it extends the limits of our perception, and in effect, what the human visual system is capable of. Yet it also raises questions about our ability to multitask. In a world where people are already bumping into things while staring at their smart phone screen, the idea of having to process another layer of visual information is a bit daunting and perhaps even dangerous.
Since we are poised on the cusp of this new technology, it’s a good time to ponder what it will mean for eyecare professionals. Will eyecare practices and optical retailers be selling these new AR systems? Will they be Rxable? What impact will they have on our vision?
It’s too soon to answer these questions, but 20/20 and L&T readers should learn as much as possible about the new AR. It will impact your patients and your practices, whether you are ready or not.
—Andrew Karp
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