# Connected Clarity Virtual and augmented reality tech shifts from fun to function through eyesight. By [Armida Ascano](https://www.trendhunter.com/Armida), Chief Insights Officer | Published Feb 18, 2016 | Category: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/pro/category/lifestyle-trends) Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/connected-clarity ## Key Figures - Trend score: 4.0/10 - Evidence articles: 5 ## What is the Connected Clarity trend? **Connected Clarity:** With smart glasses sales showing a slow incline, it seems interest in leisurely ocular wearables is not as high as expected; perhaps more purpose-driven smart glasses are the answer. The onslaught of prescription-integrated, functional smart glasses ushers in a new era of the digital age where tech is recognized less as a novelty, and more of a necessity. ## At a Glance - Evidence: 5 featured examples - Articles from: Jan 20, 2016 to Oct 13, 2017 - Published: Feb 18, 2016 - Patterns: [Convergence](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/convergence), [Redirection](https://www.trendhunter.com/pattern/redirection) - Megatrends: [Multisensation](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/multisensation), [Gamification](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/gamification), [Artificial Intelligence](https://www.trendhunter.com/megatrend/artificial-intelligence) ## Audience - Gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Themes within the Connected Clarity trend ### Functional Smart Glasses The rise of prescription-integrated smart glasses marks a shift towards purpose-driven technology that is necessary rather than a novelty. ### Vision Technology Advancements The development of bio-sensing contact lenses and vision-corrected VR screens offer disruptive innovation opportunities in the healthcare and technology industries. ### Contact Lens Enhancement Researchers are investing in contact lens technology advancements such as tech-infused and bio-sensing lenses that have potential disruptive opportunities in the healthcare and wearable tech industries. ## What the Connected Clarity trend means for industry ### For Healthcare Smart glasses and bio-sensing contact lenses offer innovative solutions in diagnosing and monitoring conditions, as well as visual aids for those with vision impairments. ### For Wearable Technology The rise of functional smart glasses and the development of augmented reality contact lenses demonstrate a focus on making wearable technology more practical and necessary in everyday life. ### For Virtual Reality Vision-corrected VR screens and advancements in related technologies offer innovative solutions for more immersive and accessible virtual reality experiences for different types of users, including those with visual impairments. ## Workshop question What failed technology within your industry could benefit from a redefined purpose? ## Trend signals for Connected Clarity Trend score 4.0 out of 10, from popularity 61%, activity 51%, freshness 8%. - Popularity: 61% - Activity: 51% - Freshness: 8% ## Examples of the Connected Clarity trend 5 featured examples from Jan 20, 2016 to Oct 13, 2017. - [Anime-Infused Contact Lenses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/custom-contact-lenses): These Smart Custom Contact Lenses Could Help Pokémon Go Players (Category: Tech) Implication: Disruptive innovation opportunities include creating new gaming experiences that integrate augmented reality contact lenses. - [Connected Eyeglass Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/snaps-spectacles): The Snapbots at Westfield Encourage Trials of Snap's Spectacles (Category: Business) Implication: Retailers can use connected eyeglasses to create unique in-store experiences. - [Bio-Sensing Contact Lenses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biosensing-lenses): These Bio-Sensing Lenses Can Monitor Telltale Signs of Disease (Category: Tech) Implication: The development of bio-sensing contact lenses for non-invasive medical diagnostics has the potential to transform how doctors track and treat diseases. - [Vision-Corrected VR Screens](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vision-test): This Mobile Vision Test Device Indicates Prescription Virtual Reality (Category: Tech) Implication: The potential for prescription VR headsets opens up a new market for companies producing VR technology, and could lead to more customization options and experiences. - [Vision-Repairing Implants](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vision-aid): The 'Argus II' is a Vision Aid that Sends Video to the Wearer's Brain (Category: Life-Stages) Implication: The development of innovative, implantable medical devices for vision restoration represents a significant opportunity for growth and expansion within the industry. ## Recent trend clusters - [Assisted Choices](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/weight-loss-medication-support) (Lifestyle) - [Storyline Sips](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/themed-drink-menus) (Lifestyle) - [Bedtime Cocoon](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/sleep-sensory-blocking) (Lifestyle) - [Source Signatures](https://www.trendhunter.com/protrends/oak-finish-whiskey) (Lifestyle) ## Trending in Lifestyle - [Mystery Packaging Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cow-not-laughing) - [Multi-Benefit Protein Shakes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/comes-in-three-flavors) - [Creator-Led Learning Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/learning-series) - [Accessible Fintech Pop-Ups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chequing-account) All articles: [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle)