Wearable technology has changed how we monitor health — from fitness trackers to smartwatches. But the next frontier may be sitting directly on your eyes: smart contacts health trackers.
These advanced lenses are designed to do more than correct vision. They can measure glucose levels, blood pressure, hydration, and even eye pressure — turning your eyes into a gateway to vital health data. In this article, we highlight six innovative startups leading the way in transforming smart contacts into health trackers that may soon replace traditional devices.
How Smart Contacts Health Trackers Work
Sensors and Microchips in Lenses
Smart contacts health trackers embed ultra-thin biosensors and wireless chips into soft, flexible lenses. These sensors analyze tear fluid, which contains valuable biomarkers like glucose and electrolytes.
Real-Time Data Transmission
The data is transmitted via micro-antennas to smartphones or connected devices, giving patients real-time insights into their health.
Why Smart Contacts Beat Smartwatches
Unlike wrist wearables, smart contacts health trackers provide continuous, accurate data without extra effort from the user. They’re discreet, non-invasive, and integrate into daily routines.
Startup #1: Verily’s Smart Lens Project
Verily Life Sciences, part of Alphabet (Google’s parent company), has been working on smart contacts health trackers for diabetes care.
- Goal: Measure glucose levels in tear fluid.
- Partnerships: Collaboration with Novartis for commercialization.
- Status: Development slowed, but Verily is still investing in digital health.
🔗 Learn more from NIH on glucose monitoring research.
Startup #2: Mojo Vision
Mojo Vision is best known for augmented reality lenses, but they’re also exploring smart contacts health trackers.
- Features: Built-in AR display + potential for biometric sensing.
- Future Use: Could track glucose, hydration, and cardiovascular metrics.
Startup #3: Sensimed
Sensimed developed Triggerfish, an FDA-approved smart contact lens for glaucoma monitoring.
- Focus: Measures intraocular pressure (IOP).
- Significance: First commercially available smart contact with diagnostic approval.
Startup #4: InWith Corp
InWith Corp is pushing the boundaries of biometric smart contacts health trackers.
- Capabilities: Measures hydration, electrolytes, and blood pressure.
- Strategy: Working with eyewear manufacturers to scale production.
Startup #5: Eyenovia
Eyenovia combines drug delivery and diagnostics into smart lens tech.
- Innovation: Microdosing eye drugs while tracking ocular health.
- Potential: Could help prevent eye diseases like macular degeneration.
Startup #6: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care
As a global leader in eye care, J&J Vision Care is exploring smart lenses that double as health trackers.
- Applications: Glucose and blood pressure monitoring.
- Integration: Future apps may sync with Apple Health or Google Fit.
Applications of Smart Contacts Health Trackers
- Blood Pressure Monitoring — Early detection of hypertension.
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) — Non-invasive diabetes management.
- Glaucoma Monitoring — Eye pressure tracking for at-risk patients.
- Disease Prevention — Detect dehydration, kidney issues, or heart strain.
Challenges Facing Smart Contacts Health Trackers
- Comfort and Biocompatibility: Must remain safe for daily use.
- Data Privacy: Sensitive health data must be secured.
- Regulatory Barriers: FDA and EU approvals are essential for market release.
Market Growth and Potential
The digital health market could exceed $600 billion by 2030. Smart contacts health trackers are positioned to capture a significant share, especially in diabetes and cardiovascular care.
🔗 Explore insights on Harvard Health’s wearable tech guide.
Smart Contacts vs. Smartwatches
| Feature | Smart Contacts Health Trackers | Smartwatches |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | High (tear fluid biomarkers) | Moderate |
| Discretion | Invisible | Visible |
| Compliance | Automatic (daily wear) | Requires charging/wear |
| Use Cases | Glucose, BP, glaucoma | Steps, heart rate, sleep |
Future of Smart Contacts Health Trackers
Over the next decade, expect smart contacts to:
- Integrate with AI-driven health apps.
- Provide predictive analytics for disease prevention.
- Become part of telehealth ecosystems.
FAQs
Q1: Are smart contacts health trackers safe?
Yes, but long-term studies are still underway.
Q2: Can they replace glucose monitors?
They may supplement or reduce reliance on finger-pricks, but not yet fully replace them.
Q3: When will they be available?
Experts predict within 5–10 years.
Q4: How much will they cost?
Likely more than regular lenses; insurance coverage will matter.
Q5: Who benefits most?
Diabetes patients, glaucoma patients, and those at risk of hypertension.
Conclusion: Smart Contacts Health Trackers Are the Next Big Leap
Smart contacts health trackers represent the future of digital health. By measuring blood pressure, glucose, and eye pressure directly from the eye, they offer non-invasive, accurate, and continuous health monitoring.
With startups like Verily, Mojo Vision, and Johnson & Johnson driving innovation, smart contacts are poised to transform preventive healthcare, making them one of the most exciting health technologies of the decade.
