What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
PixelOptics emPower! was an early prescription-eyewear system designed to switch between distance and near focus using liquid-crystal lenses and electronics built into the frame. The company began selling a first generation through optical professionals in 2011, but stopped distribution in March 2013 amid product problems and financial distress. PixelOptics later filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. The original emPower! is a discontinued historical product, not a current retail offering.
What were PixelOptics emPower! glasses?
emPower! was an attempt to give people with presbyopia—an age-related difficulty focusing on close objects—an alternative to fixed bifocals, trifocals and progressive lenses. Instead of relying solely on different prescription zones permanently built into the lens, emPower! could electronically change the lens’s optical power to provide near focus when needed.
PixelOptics described emPower! as the “world’s first electronic focusing eyeglasses.” That was the company’s product claim, not an independent comparative finding. The concept attracted attention at CES in January 2011, but PixelOptics said at the time that the glasses had not yet officially launched.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →How did the electronic focusing work?
Liquid-crystal lens layer
The lens combined a conventional prescription lens with a thin, transparent liquid-crystal layer. Applying an electric charge changed the orientation of the liquid crystals, changing the optical path through that layer and therefore the lens’s focusing behavior. Unlike a mechanically adjustable lens, the system had no moving lens parts.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Anti-Blue Light & Eye Care】Featuring anti-blue light lenses, the glasses help block harmful blue light emitted by electronic screens to relieve eye strain, dry eyes and discomfort caused by prolonged screen time.
- 【Durable & Lightweight Material】Constructed from premium PC material, these glasses are light in weight, sturdy, impact-resistant and flexible. The solid frame structure guarantees a long service life for daily wear.
- 【Suitable for Various Occasions】Perfect for reading, office work, shopping, trips and outdoor daily activities. Boasting a timeless stylish look, they work well for both men and women, bringing clear vision and great convenience to daily life.
Electronics and focus controls
Microchips, micro-machine accelerometers and rechargeable batteries were incorporated into the frame. The wearer could touch the frame to switch focus manually. The accelerometer could also detect a downward-looking motion and activate a near-focus zone for reading. US Optical described three operating modes: automatic, manual-on and manual-off. PixelOptics said the focus change took less time than a blink and made no sound.
That design depended on both electronics and prescription fitting: it was not simply a generic pair of glasses that a wearer could adjust without optical support. The product was offered through optical laboratories and prescription professionals.
Rank #2
- Autofocus Function: This automatic zoom anti-blue light presbyopia glasses are equipped with advanced autofocus technology, which can automatically adjust the focus according to your line of sight, ensuring that you always have a clear view when reading, using the computer or watching TV. Say goodbye to blurry visual experience and enjoy unparalleled clarity.
- Lightweight and Comfortable Design: Smart zoom reading glasses are made of high-quality PC material for lenses, and the frame is made of TR and metal materials, with 2 mirror bags and 2 lens cloths. The overall weight is light and comfortable to wear. Even if you wear adjustable reading glasses for a long time, you will not feel uncomfortable, especially suitable for people who need to use their eyes for a long time.
- Ergonomic Design: The design of the temples of automatic zoom blue light blocking reading glasses conforms to the principles of ergonomics. It is not only stable and not easy to slip, but also effectively disperses pressure, ensuring that you can get reliable eye protection and clear vision in any situation. Whether reading books at home or working in the office, you can easily cope with various needs.
- Clear and Transparent Lenses: The lenses of intelligent zoom glasses are made of PC material, and the field of vision is clearer and more transparent. The autofocus function makes it easy and quick to adjust the focus, whether you are reading small print or watching distant scenery. Smart focus adjustable glasses are very suitable for reading, using computers, watching TV and other activities, making your life more convenient.
- Applicable to Multiple Scenarios: Presbyopic glasses anti-blue light is not only suitable for general purposes such as indoor reading and using computers, but also very suitable for outdoor activities. Wear it all day long, whether it is traveling, partying, fishing or other outdoor activities, it can provide you with all-round protection. The anti-radiation design further enhances the functionality of the glasses and provides additional protection for your eyes.
When did emPower! launch, and how was it sold?
- 2009: PixelOptics announced controlled consumer wearer trials and said a major launch was planned for 2010. The company described its Vision Expo East demonstration as the first public display.
- January 2011: emPower! appeared at CES and in media demonstrations. PixelOptics emphasized that the product was not yet officially launched.
- Spring 2011: PixelOptics announced commitments from nine optical laboratories for regional launches beginning in May. US Optical planned manufacturing for a Southeast launch around April 4.
- 2011–2013: The first generation reached limited commercial sales through optical channels. Vision Monday reported in 2013 that more than 1,000 first-generation units had been sold; MIDO later reported about 1,000 pairs sold between 2011 and 2013.
The sales figures are reports from different sources and reporting periods, not a precise audited lifetime total. They indicate that emPower! reached some customers, but not a broad mass-market rollout.
What did the first-generation glasses cost and require?
New Atlas reported in 2011 that the planned retail price was about US$1,000–$1,200 and that the range included approximately 36 styles. These are contemporaneous reported launch-era figures, not a current price or evidence that every style was available in every region.
Rank #3
- SMART PHOTOCHROMIC LENSES: Auto focus glasses lenses automatically darken outdoors based on UV intensity and return to clear indoors, functioning as both reading glasses and sunglasses in one pair.
- SELF-ADJUSTING INTELLIGENT ZOOM: Smart auto-focus technology adjusts the lens magnification automatically, making it easy to read and see clearly at various distances without manual adjustments.
- DUAL-PURPOSE DESIGN: Transparent indoors to block harmful blue light from screens, and color-changing outdoors to provide UV protection — no need to switch between multiple pairs of glasses.
- ALL-DAY, MULTI-SCENARIO VERSATILITY: Smart zoom glasses combine anti-blue light, intelligent zoom, and ergonomic comfort, making them suitable for reading, TV, gaming, travel, fishing, or social activities.
- INCLUDES PROTECTIVE CASE: Each pair comes with a sleek leather carrying case to keep your glasses safe and scratch-free when not in use.
New Atlas also reported inductive charging taking about two hours and battery life of two to three days depending on use. Those figures describe the reported first-generation product in 2011; they should not be read as a current specification or a guaranteed runtime for every wearer. Charging and battery management were additional considerations compared with conventional multifocal lenses, which do not need electrical power.
Why did PixelOptics stop selling emPower!?
Vision Monday reported that PixelOptics stopped distributing the first generation on March 1, 2013, citing optical, electronics and design problems as the company prepared a redesigned second generation. A separate Vision Monday report described severe financial difficulty, no liquidity and significant debt; the company could not commercialize the second generation after European testing.
Rank #4
- 【Auto Focus Lenses – No Manual Tuning Needed】 Built-in intelligent auto focus lenses adjust focal length automatically for near and far vision – covering 100° to 700° with no manual tuning required. Perfect for seamless transitions between reading, driving, and everyday activities.
- 【Smart Adaptive Light Control – Auto Darken & Clear】 These self-adjusting glasses feature lenses that automatically darken in sunlight and clear indoors – ensuring comfortable, seamless visibility in any lighting condition. From bright outdoor days to indoor office settings, adapts effortlessly to your environment.
- 【95% Blue Light Blocking 】 Effectively filters up to 95% of blue light to ease eye soreness, dryness, and fatigue caused by long hours on phones, computers, and other digital screens. Protects your eyes while you work, stream, or scroll – ideal for daily screen use.
- 【Featherweight Frameless Comfort – Barely-There Feel】 Made with premium resin lenses, a lightweight PC frame, and ergonomic pressure-relief nose pads – this frameless design feels barely there. Skin-friendly and comfortable for all-day wear without pinching or pressure marks.
- 【Versatile Unisex Durability – For Every Occasion】 These auto focus glasses adapt effortlessly to different lighting scenes – ideal for commuting, office work, outdoor activities, and home use. A practical, stylish choice for men and women alike – reliable eye care wherever you go.
PixelOptics, Inc., also identified in the bankruptcy docket as EMPOWER, filed voluntary Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Delaware on November 4, 2013. The case closed on April 30, 2018. Together, the distribution halt and bankruptcy explain why the original glasses should be treated as discontinued rather than as a product awaiting a normal retail purchase.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsDid a successor product appear?
MIDO reported in 2014 that Mitsui Chemical acquired PixelOptics technology at auction and formed Whole You to prepare an improved version. That report establishes a successor effort at that time, but it does not establish a continuing retail product, a current prescription channel or present-day availability. No verified 2026 retail specification or current comparative clinical trial is established here.
Best Value
- Auto Focus Glasses with Color-Changing Lenses: These auto focus glasses feature lenses that adjust tint in response to changing light conditions. The vision sync multifocal glasses design allows for clear viewing at various distances without lens swapping. Users appreciate the versatility of these vision sync multifocal glasses for both indoor and outdoor settings.
- Vision Sync Multifocal Glasses with Complete Accessory Set: This vision sync multifocal glasses package includes a precision screwdriver for frame adjustments, a protective storage pouch, and a cleaning cloth. The included tools allow users to maintain the auto focus glasses easily without additional purchases. The complete vision sync multifocal glasses set provides everything needed for daily use and care.
- Vision Sync Multifocal Glasses with Lightweight Comfort: These vision sync multifocal glasses are designed with a lightweight frame that sits comfortably for extended wear. The auto focus glasses structure reduces pressure on the nose and ears during prolonged use. Users find these vision sync multifocal glasses suitable for reading, screen work, and everyday activities.
- Auto Focus Glasses with Protective Storage Pouch: The auto focus glasses come with a soft pouch that protects the lenses from scratches when not in use. The included cleaning cloth of these vision sync multifocal glasses helps maintain clear vision by removing smudges and dust. The pouch and cloth ensure the vision sync multifocal glasses stay in good condition for long-term use.
- Complete Vision Sync Multifocal Glasses Set for Daily Use: This vision sync multifocal glasses set includes the color-changing eyewear, a screwdriver for adjustments, a storage pouch, and a cleaning cloth. The practical accessories of these auto focus glasses make this vision sync multifocal glasses package suitable for home, office, or travel. Users value the convenience of having all necessary care items included with the auto focus glasses.
Can you still buy PixelOptics emPower! glasses?
The original emPower! is not a current retail offering. Since first-generation distribution stopped in 2013 and PixelOptics entered Chapter 7 bankruptcy that year, a new pair should not be expected through an ordinary authorized retail channel. A secondhand listing, if encountered, would not establish that the lenses, electronics, charger or prescription support remain usable; the available evidence does not establish current warranty or repair service.
How emPower! differed from conventional multifocal glasses
| Consideration | PixelOptics emPower! | Conventional multifocal lenses |
|---|---|---|
| Focus mechanism | Liquid-crystal layer changed optical power electronically. | Different prescription powers are fixed in lens zones or a progressive design. |
| How near focus was accessed | Frame touch control or an accelerometer-triggered near zone; automatic, manual-on and manual-off modes were described. | The wearer looks through the appropriate part of the lens; no electronic switching is required. |
| Power | Required frame electronics and rechargeable batteries; 2011 reporting described inductive charging. | No battery or charging requirement. |
| Fitting and distribution | Prescription product sold through optical laboratories and professionals. | Also requires an appropriate prescription and fitting by an eye-care professional. |
| Price and current availability | New Atlas reported a planned 2011 price of about US$1,000–$1,200; original product discontinued, with no established current retail availability. | Price depends on the prescription, lens design and provider; no comparable price is established here. |
emPower!’s appeal was the prospect of electronically changing focus without moving lens components. Its practical trade-offs included charging, embedded electronics, specialist prescription support and, ultimately, limited product availability. The available evidence documents an early commercial attempt, not proof that electronic focusing is generally superior to conventional multifocals.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
