# Phone-Based Eye Exams Netra is a Mobile Optometry Solution for Developing Countries By Tiana Reid | Published 2010-07-08 | Eco Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/netra References: [youtube](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gR6wMlnmc68&feature=player_embedded) & [web.media.mit.edu](http://web.media.mit.edu/~pamplona/NETRA/) NETRA, created in [MIT's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3dprinted-trusses) Media Lab, is a device that attaches itself onto cell phones in order to [diagnose eye prescriptions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ocular-diagnostics) in developing countries or rural areas that don't have access to more sophisticated optometry equipment. NETRA, which stands for Near-Eye Tool for [Refractive Assessment](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/eye-bot-kiosks), could really revolutionize eye care around the world. Because the device uses cellphones, an already ubiquitous tool in developing countries, NETRA's accessibility is far-reaching. **Implications** - Businesses who produce products designed to also serve the needs of the less fortunate will appeal to a wide range of consumers. Not only will such products benefit many populations, but they will demonstrate the compassion and commitment of particular company to making the world a better place. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.8/10 - Popularity: 4% | Activity: 41% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Eco](https://www.trendhunter.com/eco) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Mobile Optometry Solutions:** NETRA's innovative solution for diagnosing eye prescriptions through cell phones could lead to the development of similar systems for other medical needs. - **Tech for Developing Countries:** The use of technology to address the needs of those living in developing countries presents opportunities for further innovation in areas such as healthcare, education, and communication. - **Accessibility Through Ubiquitous Technology:** NETRA's use of cellphones to make eye care more accessible shows the potential for utilizing widely available technology to address global challenges. ### Who This Affects Most - **Healthcare:** NETRA's device and similar mobile optometry solutions have the potential to disrupt the optometry industry and bring eye care to underserved populations. - **Technology:** The use of technology to address global challenges in developing countries presents opportunities for innovation in areas beyond healthcare, such as education and communication. - **Socially Responsible Business:** Producing products designed to serve the needs of less fortunate populations can benefit both business and society, demonstrating a commitment to corporate social responsibility and appealing to socially conscious consumers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [AI-Powered Retinal Screening Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ai-optics.md) - [Accessible Eye Health Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/eye-health-app.md) - [Ultra-Efficient Vision Care Solutions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vision-care.md) - [AR-Powered Eye Training Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/eyes-amblyopia-trainer.md) - [Ocular Disease-Detecting Apps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clearly-vision.md) - [Nano Projector Nearsightedness Eyewear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kubota-glass-eyeglasses.md) - [Portable AI-Powered Healthcare Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aipowered-healthcare.md) - [Eye-Detecting Nursery Mobiles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/innovision.md) - [Automated Eye Exams](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/walmart-and-sams-club.md)