Smart glasses are often touted as the next frontier in personal computing, with applications ranging from social media to AI integration. However, Soliddd is taking a different approach, focusing on the medical field with their innovative SolidddVision smart glasses. Unveiled at CES 2025, these glasses offer a potential vision correction solution for individuals suffering from macular degeneration. Remarkably, these glasses are slated to hit the market later this year without requiring FDA clearance.
What is Macular Degeneration?
Macular degeneration is an age-related eye disease affecting the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. This deterioration leads to blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field, significantly impacting daily life. Millions worldwide are affected by this condition, which comes in two forms: dry and wet macular degeneration. While currently incurable, some medications can slow the progression or even slightly improve vision in certain cases.
Interior view of the SolidddVision smartglasses.
Soliddd founder Neal Weinstock confidently stated, “We can provide sight in areas of the visual field where patients otherwise see nothing.” This claim is supported by positive results from clinical studies involving the SolidddVision glasses, offering a glimpse of hope for those affected.
How SolidddVision Works: A Fly-Eye Inspired Solution
Drawing inspiration from the compound eye of a fly, SolidddVision employs a unique lens array system. This innovative technology projects multiple images onto the healthy areas of the retina, bypassing the damaged macula. The glasses work in conjunction with sophisticated software to seamlessly combine these images. The brain then interprets this input, reconstructing a single, clear image that simulates normal vision. This process is driven by a patented optical design and software, utilizing a parallel-ray light field to deliver in-focus visuals.
Working design of the SolidddVision smartglasses.
Advanced Technology for Enhanced Vision
The SolidddVision glasses integrate advanced technology to achieve this remarkable feat. Two front-facing cameras capture the external world, while two inward-facing cameras map the user’s eyes and track their gaze. The software processes the captured video, incorporating eye-mapping data and performing spatial adjustments and color correction. The resulting image is then projected onto internal display units within the glasses, providing the user with a corrected view.
Interior display unit of the SolidddVision smartglasses.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future
Currently in beta testing, SolidddVision is expected to launch in 2025. These smart glasses represent a significant advancement in wearable technology, moving beyond entertainment and convenience to address a real medical need. The potential impact of this technology on the lives of those with macular degeneration is immense, offering a renewed sense of independence and improved quality of life. It will be exciting to witness the continued development and evolution of this groundbreaking technology.
