Google's smart contact lenses might be heading to stores in the very near future if the company's recent actions are to be considered.
The project is apparently far along enough that Google has already begun work on developing possible packaging plans for the new product, according to Digital Spy.
Originally, Google indicated that the smart contact lenses would take about five years to complete. However, with still roughly three-and-a-half years left on the timeline that both Google and its project partner, Novartis, allotted for themeselves to complete the lenses, it appears both sides are primed to launch the new item well ahead of schedule.
Word of the lenses arriving ahead of scheduled was discovered after a recent patent application from Google revealed that they are well on their way to completing the project within the projected timeline, according to Tech Times.
The patent application itself describes what appears to be packaging for what they are terming as an "eye-mountable device." While the patent application stops short of specifically identifying the smart lens itself, wording within it indicates a device that could be used to analyze things such as tears to uncover information concerning a person's health.
The patent application also provides a rough overview of what the smart lens might ultimately look like as it provides information related to where the sensors and other forms of hardware may be found on the device.
Google's plan to create a smart lens was originally announced back in July of 2014, and it was made together with Novartis, the tech giant's partner for the project.
Adding to the speculation that Google may be on the verge of releasing the smart lens is the news that they have had talks with the Food and Drug Administration regarding plans to conduct trials for their new device.
As of now, Google has yet to announce any further developments regarding their smart contact lenses.
