Practice Tip: Learn about the material properties of rigid gas permeable lenses
“Rigid gas permeable (RGP) materials possess characteristics, including oxygen permeability, surface chemistry, hardness/modulus, and specific gravity, that are crucial to patient comfort and satisfaction,” writes Susan A. Resnick, OD, FAAO, in her latest “Contact Lenses” column. To find out how these properties may influence contact lens selection, read more.  

 Applied Design partners with Braille Institute to launch typeface
Applied Design, a branding and design company, joined forces with the Braille Institute to launch Atkinson Hyperlegible Next, an enhanced and expanded version of the Atkinson Hyperlegible typeface, according to a press release. The new version will further the ability for people to more easily find and comprehend information, particularly in contexts like signage, digital interfaces, or printed materials, according to the press release. 

EssilorLuxottica gets green light for audio smart glasses
EssilorLuxottica received FDA clearance for its Nuance Audio Glasses. The device integrates hearing aid functionality into a pair of smart glasses. The glasses target individuals who have mild-to-moderate hearing loss, which is estimated to affect 1.25 billion people worldwide, according to a press release. Sales of the product are expected to begin in the United States. in Q1.

iCare’s director of government accounts retires 
iCare’s John Hawley, director of government accounts, is retiring. Through mentorship, he has shaped many of the iCare team, helping them to become better professionals and a stronger, more cohesive team, according to a press release. Prior to his role at iCare, Hawley was vice president of global sales at Optovue and vice president of U.S. operations at Heidelberg Engineering US.

Lumenis launches device for lower lid laxity and impaired blinking
Lumenis launched OptiLIFT, a Dynamic Muscle Stimulation technology for toning facial muscles to address lower lid laxity and impaired blinking without the need for surgery, according to a press release. Specifically, the technology works by activating the facial muscles with electrical impulses, tightening and toning the periorbital muscle. The device’s radiofrequency (RF) component delivers heat to skin layers to enhance collagen formation. OptiLIFT is also available with an optional RF microneedling upgrade, which utilizes ultrathin needles and a double RF mechanism to increase skin smoothness. OptiLIFT is now available in the United States, with other markets expected to follow, the company says. Visit https://information.lumenis.com/optilift. 

Norlase receives award for pattern laser indirect ophthalmoscope
Norlase received a PRISM Award in the Biomechanical category for its pattern laser indirect ophthalmoscope, Lynx, according to a press release. The device integrates laser and pattern-scanning technology into a wearable headset. The PRISM Awards celebrate impactful innovations in optics and photonics worldwide, according to the press release. For more information about Lynx, visit www.norlase.com.

Notal Vision announces study that shows efficacy of AI algorithm in home-based optical coherence tomography system
Notal Vision announced the results of a recent study in Ophthalmology Science that shows an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm was effective in estimating key biomarkers in neovascular AMD via a home-based optical coherence tomography (OCT) system. Specifically, the study looked at two key outcomes: (1) repeatability of the algorithm estimating total retinal hypo-reflective space volumes on home OCT images, and (2) the agreement between the AI and expert graders in segmenting hyporeflective spaces in the images, including sub- and intraretinal spaces. 

Pearle Vision named one of Entrepreneur magazine’s top 50 franchises
Pearle Vision was named No. 43 in Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500, according to a press release. The optical secured this spot due to its performance in various areas, including unit growth, financial strength and stability, and brand power. Additionally, Pearle Vision was ranked No. 1 in the optical industry and the second highest in health and wellness franchises of 2025. To view Pearle Vision in the full ranking, visit www.entrepreneur.com/franchise500. Results can also be seen in the January/February 2025 issue of Entrepreneur.

Qlaris Bio announces positive results of open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension drug from two phase 2 trials
Qlaris Bio, a clinical-stage biotechnology company, announced positive topline results from two U.S. phase 2 clinical trials investigating its open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension topical drug candidate QLS-111. Specifically, both the Osprey (NCT06016972) and Apteryx (NCT06249152) studies revealed the drug successfully met all primary and secondary endpoints, as well as safety and tolerability, according to a press release. QLS-111 decreases IOP by relaxing vessels of the vascular and vascular-like tissues distal to the trabecular meshwork, thereby reducing distal outflow resistance and lowering episcleral venous pressure. For more information, please visit www.qlaris.bio.

Specialty Vision Consultants launches ortho-k lens design software
Specialty Vision Consultants, a company focused on myopia management, launched its ortho-k lens design software, Doctors' Own Design at the recent Global Specialty Lens Symposium* meeting, which took place in Las Vegas, Nev. The platform facilitates both the design and fit of custom ortho-K lenses, according to a press release. For more information about Specialty Vision Consultants and the Doctors’ Own Design software, visit www.doctorsowndesign.com *the Global Specialty Lens Symposium is a Conexiant meeting. Conexiant owns Optometric Management.

World Council of Optometry names theme for 2025 World Optometry Week
The World Council of Optometry (WCO) announced the theme for World Optometry Week 2025 (March 17 to March 25): “Eyes to the Future: Optometry Improving Global Wellness.” With this year’s theme, WCO aims to emphasize optometry’s far-reaching impact and its vital role in shaping the future of eye care worldwide, according to a press release. The organization is inviting optometrists worldwide to use its multi-lingual World Optometry Week Social Media Resources to support its  advocacy efforts for World Optometry Week and World Optometry Day.. To let WCO know how your organization is celebrating World Optometry Day and World Optometry Week 2025, email communications@worldoptometry.org. OM