A new lens for computer users?

Implications: This eyeglass lens designer, Ron Blum has created a new type of Progressive Addition Lens about 6 years ago. It created a new market in Ultra-Premium lenses. Now he is attempting to create a new lens for computer users. I look forward to its introduction next month, and to the creation of new profit opportunity from selling his new design.

Analysis: The Panasonic Venture Group, The Carlyle Group, Delphi Ventures, Life Science Angels have put capital into this company. I think it is due to the expected need for a product like this.

This lens is for the computer user that is an "adult," or needs a different prescription for distance than near. This is the largest growing section of the US population coming into my office as a general practitioner in the mid-town New York City area.

The prior product produced by PixelOptics founder was the Definity Progressive Addition Lens. I started using the Definity progressive addition lens before Essilor purchased the company. It was a Johnson & Johnson wholly owned company. The Definity is now one of my favorite lenses for both technology and profit. The concept has been copied by Pentax, Nikon, Essilor, Zeiss and others.

The largest number of patients I see are using the computer day in and day out. A lens that keeps things in focus from 72 inches to 14 inches is out already, but not popular.

There has not been a new "intermediate" type lens design in many years. What is available is not a profit center, but a niche product. I am hoping to see a quality product for the "second" pair of glasses for computer users.