CONTACTS: Sony shrinks down camera technology to fit into a mere contact lens.
By Chloe Vega, Staff Writer
This past April, Sony became the the third company to patent its all-new camera contact lens. This new lens allows people to record and photograph life’s most memorable moments, all with the blink of an eye. This type of technology opens doors to creativity and wonder, as well as danger and harm.
Despite Google’s past failure with both the Google Glass and electronic lens injections, Sony insists that its new technology is far superior and will be more successful. The new lens design will include zoom, stabilization, aperture and focus control. However, it is not yet clear how those using the lens will be able to change and set these functions.
People can use their new camera contacts to capture and record memorable moments, bringing them even closer to a sense of augmented reality. Lenses could possibly be used to film movies from a first person perspective, or to create photographic art like never before. The possibilities that come with this new technology are endless.
However, this new technology also offers plenty of room for error. A common problem with the Google Glass was the illegal photographing and recording opportunities it allowed. The glasses were banned in numerous locations such as restaurants, cafes, and cinemas. With a new camera concealed in someone’s eye, it will be even easier to sneak photos and videos where such activity might be frowned upon.
The lenses can also be dangerous. Sony plans on giving its new lens tools such as sensors, a storage unit, an antenna, and a wireless communication system. Devices such as these were not originally made to be put into the human eye. If anyone using the contact lenses experiences sight impairments afterwards, Sony will be the one to blame.
Despite the sudden excitement caused by this new and strange idea, people will have plenty of time to consider the option of camera contact lenses. So far, Sony has only released black and white sketches of a contact lens prototype. If technology such as this does become a reality, it will not be for several years.