Forget Google Glass – Google is getting even closer to your eyes. Google is currently testing a contact lens that measures glucose levels in tears to help manage a patient’s diabetes. The lens, which can get a reading once per second, was created in a time when the International Diabetes Foundation says we are “losing the battle” against diabetes. The ultimate goal of the lens is to help alleviate the pressure of managing the disease, which is so time-consuming it is sometimes referred to as a part-time job. The lenses feature miniaturized embedded electronics and an antenna that’s “thinner than a human hair.” There’s nothing else to the lens, though, so don’t expect an ability to download apps or browse the internet – these are designed specifically to help in the fight against diabetes. Google is working closely with the FDA on the contact lenses, which are currently in early clinical trials. Dealing with diabetes is a major burden, but Google seems close to making it easier to manage.
About Shelly Palmer
Shelly Palmer is the Professor of Advanced Media in Residence at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and CEO of The Palmer Group, a consulting practice that helps Fortune 500 companies with technology, media and marketing. Named LinkedIn’s “Top Voice in Technology,” he covers tech and business for Good Day New York, is a regular commentator on CNN and writes a popular daily business blog. He's a bestselling author, and the creator of the popular, free online course, Generative AI for Execs. Follow @shellypalmer or visit shellypalmer.com.