A Step Toward Life-Changing Solutions: ERI Research Published In PLOS One Scientific Journal

Reading a menu, recognizing a friend across the room, or finding a doorway in low light can be harder with low vision. New research from the Envision Research Institute (ERI) shows how wearable vision aids can make those moments clearer, safer and more independent. The research has been accepted for publication in PLOS ONE, a peer-reviewed scientific journal, bringing Envision’s findings to an international research audience.  

Envision researchers evaluated three head-worn smartglasses that capture the scene ahead and display a live image with magnification and visual enhancement: Ziru smartglasses, the IrisVision headset and NuEyes smartglasses. The study assessed distance and near visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and how well participants could identify objects while moving indoors. 

“Living with low vision is a daily challenge that touches every visual task, from reading to moving through the world safely. This research is about understanding which tools truly help people improve their vision, so they can regain confidence, independence and motivation,” says Dr. Sarika Gopalakrishnan, PhD, FAAO, Research Program Manager, ERI. 

More than 250 million people worldwide live with low vision. Evidence about which devices deliver meaningful improvements can guide clinicians, patients and families toward tools that support independence and quality of life. These findings also lay groundwork for future innovations, including artificial-intelligence-enabled navigation and mobility support. In the study, participants saw measurable improvements in reading small text and recognizing detail with two of the devices tested, Ziru and IrisVision, showing gains in distance and near visual acuity and in contrast sensitivity. In practical terms, participants could read smaller text more comfortably and distinguish light-and-dark details that matter for reading and mobility. Results varied by device, helping clarify where each tool can best support daily life.  

“This important research marks a foundational step toward understanding how artificial intelligence can support navigational assistance for people who are blind or visually impaired,” says Lou Celli, Vice President, Envision Research Institute.