Smartphone vision tracker introduced

The EyeQue Personal Vision Tracker lets users test their eyesight through the use of myEyeQue, a device that attaches to a smartphone. While few details are provided about the attachment, it is almost certainly a simple optometer and measures of astigmatism probably rely on a ‘sphere-sphere’ technique.The app claims to be able to make refractive error measurents, and identify vision conditions (how is not revealed). Furthermore, it goes on to advise the user to: Use the results to order new glasses from online retailers.{{quote-A:R-W:450-I:2-Q: The test itself is more like a game than a trip to the optometrist, -WHO:Mr John Serri, EyeQue’s chief technology officer}}A series of pixel-powered patterns on the phone’s screen are used to assess the eye’s refractive state and generate a set of EyeGlass numbers. The results are then shown on the smartphone as a conventional spectacle Rx.“The test itself is more like a game than a trip to the optometrist,” EyeQue’s chief technology officer Mr John Serri said.This patented innovative technology allows for self-administrated testing and is compatible with iOS and Android systs. Users are also able to access their records kept in the EyeQue Cloud to gauge the changes in their eyesight. No mention is made of any ongoing cost to retain the data on the business’ cloud server.The company also sells corrective glasses tailored to the customer’s EyeGlass number. A California-based startup, EyeQue has been awarded the CES 2017 Best of Innovation Awards for its development of the vision tracker.The company also aims to bring this device to regional areas with limited access to eye care. It is also working with the non-profit, TwoBillionEyes, to introduce its device to under-served and rote rural regions.“EyeQue is all about promoting eye health on a global level. We want to help people everywhere learn more about their eyes and provide tools to keep eye care top of mind,” Serri said.The company was formed in late 2015 and crowd-funded its project to develop the testing kit. It has raised more than $90,000 from 2,600 supporters.{{image3-a:l-w:400}}However, some existing eye-exam laws in the US are challenging this type of innovation. A new law that took effect in July 2016 in the US state of Georgia mandates an in-person eye examination by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist before a person can receive a prescription for glasses or contact lenses.The American Optometric Association is also urging the US Food and Drug Administration to take legal action against online vision testing. The situation regarding who can prepare a valid and legal prescription for dispensing subsequently is more clearcut in Australian and Rxs ‘created’ by applications and/or services such as EyeQue would not be legal here.