While the world of technology evolves rapidly, traditional glasses have remained unchanged for centuries. The last significant innovation was the introduction of progressive lenses in the 1950s, designed for people who need both near and far vision correction. Enter IXI, a startup determined to change that with a new approach to eyewear.
IXI recently debuted a prototype of glasses that weigh just 22 grams (0.7 ounces). Their standout feature? Autofocusing lenses designed specifically for age-related farsightedness, a condition that impacts many after the age of 45. Unlike traditional multifocal glasses that require multiple prescriptions, IXI’s lenses automatically adapt to your focus. This means you won’t need to switch between pairs of glasses for different tasks.
How does it work? The glasses use eye-tracking technology without needing a camera. Instead, a series of LEDs and photodiodes track the movement and convergence of your eyes. As you shift your focus, the lenses seamlessly adjust, offering a more natural viewing experience. Remarkably, this system consumes only 4 milliwatts of power, making it highly efficient compared to camera-based systems that require much more.
Most of the tech—like memory and sensors—is located near the hinge of the frame. The batteries are similar in size to those in AirPods, allowing for a lightweight design. IXI claims that a full charge can last an entire day. Even if the battery dies, the glasses will still function as traditional specs based on your prescription.
IXI’s founder, Niko Eiden, shared that the lenses are made from layers of liquid crystal and a conductive material called indium tin oxide (ITO). This unique construction allows for thin, adaptable lenses that can also correct astigmatism. The glasses might even track health metrics like blink rates and can provide insights about eye hydration and body posture.
Interestingly, studies show that our blink rates change with attention levels and emotional states, such as anxiety. IXI could potentially harness this data to enhance eye health management, creating a more complete view of users’ well-being.
As they prepare to launch these smart glasses, IXI is working with Swiss lens-maker Optiswiss to ensure quality production. The company is aiming to position these glasses as a premium option in the market, available through opticians. The official release is tentatively set for next year.
In a world that often overlooks the simple art of eyewear, IXI is bringing innovation back to the forefront. With a focus on comfort and functionality, these glasses could reshape the way we understand vision correction in our everyday lives.
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IXI, bifocal lenses, glasses, Niko Eiden, liquid crystal lenses
