A new report from The Vision Council (TVC)’s inSights Research Program highlights how artificial intelligence is being applied across the optical industry. Titled “Focused inSights – Artificial Intelligence: Case Studies from the Optical Industry,” the report draws on interviews with AI experts from various organizations involved in vision care and eyewear.

Interview participants included representatives from University College London’s Institute of Ophthalmology, Fittingbox, VSP, Kenmark Eyewear, Texas State Optical, Eyebot, National Strategic Group, and Oculogyx. The interviews, conducted between late 2024 and early 2025, explored how AI is currently being used in vision care and how it may shape future practices.

“One of the key features of AI technology is its versatility and range of uses,” says Alysse Henkel, TVC’s vice president of research and insights. “We wanted to provide some examples of how AI is being harnessed in vision care now and in the near future. Hearing the variety of perspectives from industry leaders using AI offers readers a glimpse into its real-world applications, serving as an accessible introduction to AI tools in vision care.”

According to the report, AI adoption in the optical field is most frequently occurring in three areas: diagnostics, customer service, and operational efficiency. Examples include the use of AI for ophthalmic imaging analysis, automated vision screenings, customer inquiry handling, appointment scheduling, administrative task management, and content generation. Some organizations also reported using generative AI tools for marketing, software development, and other creative applications.

Several experts interviewed noted AI’s potential to improve patient access to care and enhance diagnostic accuracy. At the same time, they cited ongoing concerns around data security, patient privacy, bias in AI systems, and the reliability of AI-generated insights.

The full report is available here as a complimentary download for members and for nonmembers to purchase.