Electronic Contact Lenses

In January 2008, researchers at the University of Washington announced that they had made electronic contact lenses. According to reports, the innovation could form the basis for the kind of "superhuman vision" and virtual displays featured in films like The Terminator.

Fast facts

1. Contact lenses that contain micro-circuitry and light-emitting diodes
2. Tested on rabbits for up to 20 minutes "with no adverse effects"
3. Prototype could be the foundation for future advances

Details

Contrary to some early reports, engineers at the University of Washington have not created Terminator-vision contact lenses, though they believe they have taken a step toward the eventual use of contact lenses that enhance the vision of the wearer using electronic, rather than purely optical, means. Their prototype simply establishes that it can be done: a flexible contact lens containing tiny electronic circuitry and light-emitting diodes. The power source for the lenses has not been established, but the scientists have suggested a combination of solar and radio-frequency power.

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