The FCC set social media on fire with its previews of the next generation of Google Glass. Aside from the upgrades, it also offers a timely reminder that there are still companies pursuing professional applications for the device, particularly in healthcare.
9 To 5 Google made some observations about some changes to the enterprise version of Google Glass.
The device has a more robust build, a larger prism, and has a hinge that allows it to fold and is built to withstand bumps and bruises in the workplace. Additionally, the power button has been moved from its awkward location on the inside to the back of the device, and the front light comes on when the camera is being used. We also reported that the device is waterproof and closed-off, as to protect it from debris and other substances that may damage the hardware.
Transforming Patient Care: The Role of AI-Powered Assistants
The progress in artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping patient care, across various dimensions, from facilitating faster discharge to curating treatment plans and suggesting lifestyle changes.
Here’s a reminder of some of the health tech startups that have been working on smart glass applications
Surgical aid
Despite its rebrand to Vital Enterprises from Vital Medical earlier this year, the company continues to embrace smart glass as a way to do hands-free checks of medical images, video, and review checklists. It also provides a way to do surgical consults and medical education from the perspective of a surgeon. Google is just one type of smart glasses its platform uses.
Augmedix continues to develop its product platform for clinical applications, particularly in the emergency room, to improve communication between physicians and patients. Earlier this year it raised $16 million in a Series A round to support product development.
Reducing Clinical and Staff Burnout with AI Automation
As technology advances, AI-powered tools will increasingly reduce the administrative burdens on healthcare providers.
First responders
Led by Dan Herbstman, Third Eye Health wants to put Google Glass in the hands of emergency medical technicians so that emergency room physicians can get a more informed understanding of patients and their needs so they can be better prepared before the patients physically arrives at the hospital.
Life science manufacturing
Aside from clinical applications such as telestroke, emergency room, surgery and rural education, Pristine.io is advancing its EyseSight platform for medical device support, life science manufacturing and molecular diagnostics. Although it has relied on the technology for training in this area, it will be interesting to see how it will leverage the technology to the challenge of reducing costs in R&D.
Navigation aid for visually impaired
Aira.Io has the most consumer-oriented application of the bunch. Its assistive technology approach may raise a lot of questions about the challenges of helping vision impaired users navigate an unfamiliar part of town or new city, but it could pave the way for a new generation of applications well beyond assistance for the visually impaired such as people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Photo: FCC