Google has revealed that it is testing a prototype contact lens equipped with tiny microchip sensors for diabetics to monitor their blood-sugar levels.
By constantly checking the amount of glucose in the wearer’s tears, it could replacing the need for a diabetic to have to prick their fingers and test drops of blood throughout the day.
The internet search company – which is working on various new technologies outside its core business – said it is looking for expert partners to develop the contact lenses for the market.
Google has recently become more focused on health-related issues. It launched a separate company in September devoted to tackling diseases related to aging.
Other products it is working on include self-driving cars and balloons that beam wireless Internet to remote regions of the world.
It has also developed Google Glass, a tiny computer mounted
on a glases frame.
It projects a small screen in the corner of a wearer’s eye and is expected to become a major catalyst for what many believe to be the next big trend in mobile, wearable computing devices.
The device is not yet available for sale to the general public, although the company is testing the product with the help of thousands of so-called “Explorers” who have been given early access to the technology. It is expected to come to market later this year.
