AR contact lens

2022: The future of augmented reality just took a massive leap forward, and it's smaller than your fingernail. Mojo Vision's latest prototype of their AR contact lens represents a watershed moment in wearable technology, packing an entire computer into something you can wear directly on your eye.

Let's be clear about what we're looking at here - this isn't just another incremental step. The new prototype is what Mojo Vision calls "feature complete," integrating everything from an ARM0 processor to motion sensors in a package that's essentially the same size as a standard hard contact lens.

high resolution display

At the heart of this technological marvel sits what might be the most impressive display ever created. We're talking about a screen that packs 14,000 pixels per inch into a space smaller than 0.5mm in diameter. The pixel pitch? A mere 1.8 micrometers. If you're trying to wrap your head around these numbers, you should - they're unprecedented in display technology.

challenge for MCAD-Designer

For you as a MCAD-designer you can imagine this is a very special challenge: electronics minimalistic, positioned on the very harmful and sensitive eye ball, rapid movement of the eye, high data traffic to be presented to the human!

eye tracking system

AND: The eye tracking system deserves special attention.

Unlike conventional optical tracking systems, Mojo's solution relies purely on motion sensors and algorithmic processing. According to the company, it outperforms current optical systems by a significant margin. This isn't just marketing speak - it's a fundamental requirement for making an AR contact lens actually usable.

But here's where things get really interesting.

The system requires a neck-worn computer that handles the heavy lifting of content streaming and data processing. While this might seem like a limitation, it's actually a clever solution to the power and processing constraints of a contact lens-sized device. The proprietary communication protocol they've developed is apparently more efficient than Bluetooth LE, which is crucial for maintaining battery life and minimal latency.

battery supply

Speaking of battery life - the current two-hour continuous use might seem short, but consider what's being accomplished here. The goal is to reach full-day usage with normal wear patterns, and the charging solution is elegantly simple: it happens in the cleaning container you'd use anyway.

The viewing experience offers a 15-degree field of view, with content constantly displayed on the fovea - the part of your eye with the sharpest vision. Think of it like a spotlight that follows your gaze, always keeping the AR overlay in your sweet spot of vision.

Market implications are fascinating. Mojo Vision projects that 20-30% of smart glasses users might prefer their solution. They're targeting a price point in the high-end smartphone range, though the custom fitting requirement adds complexity to the purchase process.

five-year timeline to market

The five-year timeline to market might seem long, but it's remarkably aggressive given the technological and regulatory hurdles involved. Initial focus on medical applications, particularly for visual impairment, provides a clear path to market while they refine the technology for broader consumer applications.

The real question isn't whether this technology will transform how we interact with digital information - it's how quickly it can overcome the remaining hurdles to widespread adoption. With $205 million in funding and 110 employees, Mojo Vision has already accomplished something remarkable. But they're going to need more resources to cross the finish line.

foresight

This isn't just another gadget - it's potentially the next major computing platform. The implications for everything from healthcare to daily productivity are staggering. While challenges remain, particularly around the neck computer requirement and custom fitting process, the core technology is now proven.

Sources: https://youtu.be/A6aGDBp8Yl4, https://mixed-news.com/en/ar-contact-lens-mojo-vision-unveils-new-prototype/;

Pictures: https://mixed-news.com/en/ar-contact-lens-mojo-vision-unveils-new-prototype/; AI software