So long Google Glass? Company submits patent application for device that is injected directly into the user’s eye

As described in a patent application dated April 28, 2016, Google has an idea for a technology that can be injected into a user’s eye for the purpose of improving his / her vision.

Specifically, the device enters the eyeball in a fluid, which then solidifies once in place; this method allows the technology to better couple with the eye’s lens capsule (the transparent membrane which surrounds the lens). 

To allow room for the device, the injection is take place only “following the removal of the natural lens from the natural lens capsule.”

In terms of what technology is being added to the person’s eyeball — storage components, sensors, radio, battery, and an electronic lens. 

Per the application, the device is powered wirelessly from an “energy harvesting antenna”. Also, there will also be an external device to allow the user to interface with the eyeball-based computer. This will be accomplished via radio frequency, and the interface device will contain a processor to do all of the necessary computing on behalf of the eye-based device.

For now, the only purpose of the electronic lens is to assist in the process of focusing light onto the eye’s retina. 

While Google has filed the patent, there’s no guarantee this technology will ever see the light of day. 

Via Forbes