Simon Jones: Box of tricks

Optician often looks abroad for bellwethers of what’s next in the realm of optical retail. In recent years, America has been a key source for much of what has eventually found its way to mainland Europe.  

Kiosk-based units offering eye testing services or products have long been mooted as a key part of eye care’s future, but have always remained on the right side of ‘something from the Jetsons’. Until now.  

US online retailer Zenni Optical and technology firm Eyebot have collaborated on a vision testing kiosk where users can have their eyes tested and order prescription glasses at the same time. Don’t worry, the glasses aren’t dispensed from the machines, which are currently in 10 shopping centre locations in Boston, Massachusetts, so don’t advertise your practice with Myers La Roche just yet.