Novartis has revealed that its eye care division Alcon has entered into an agreement with Google[x] which is a division of Google Inc devoted to find innovative solutions to global problems. The agreement is concerned with the development of a smart lens which is capable of adjusting to ocular conditions and a little more.
The agreement will provide Alcon an opportunity to use Google’s Smart Lens technology and combine it with their comprehensive knowledge of human physiology. When you think about it, the possibilities seem endless. This partnership of sorts between Alcon and Google represents a step towards integrating technology with medicine to manage and control diseases.
”We are looking forward to working with Google to bring together their advanced technology and our extensive knowledge of biology to meet unmet medical needs.” said Novartis CEO Joseph Jimenez.
Novartis and Google have both repeatedly suggested that this lens will involve non-invasive sensors and will seek to improve people’s lives rather than create problems for them. The miniaturized electronics within the Smart Lens along with the non-invasive sensors will try to detect fluid levels and attempt to auto adjust the lens. Novartis’s main interest in this is grounded in two areas: helping diabetic patients manage their glucose levels by detection of glucose from the fluid in the eye in a non-invasive way and helping people with presbyopia (farsightedness) by accommodating the lens to fit the visual needs of the user. If they do achieve such a result, and it doesn’t seem doubtful considering their expertise in their respective fields, this will revolutionize diagnostics, pharmacology and medicinal science in general.
”Alcon and Google have a deep and common passion for innovation,” Jeff George, Division head of Alcon pointed.
So unless you are a paranoid conspiracy theorist with a suspicious view of the external world, this will definitely get you excited about the future.
