There is no microchip that can fully cure blindness yet, but there are several bionic eye implants and retinal microchips that can partially restore vision for certain types of blindness. These devices are not true “cures,” but they can help people see light, shapes, and movement — which is a huge step forward.

Here are some key examples:

1. Argus II Retinal Prosthesis (Second Sight)

How it works: A tiny microchip is implanted on the retina. It receives signals from a camera on special glasses and sends them to the brain through the optic nerve.

Who it helps: People who have lost vision due to retinitis pigmentosa (a retinal degenerative disease).

Results: Users can detect light, outlines, and movement — not full vision, but functional assistance.

2. PRIMA System (Pixium Vision)

How it works: A wireless photovoltaic chip (powered by light) is implanted under the retina. Special glasses project infrared images onto it, stimulating retinal cells.

Who it helps: People with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Status: In clinical trials in Europe and the U.S., showing promising results.

3. Cortical Implants (like the Orion by Cortigent)

How it works: Instead of the retina, the chip is implanted directly in the visual cortex of the brain. It bypasses damaged eyes entirely.

Who it helps: People with damage to the eyes or optic nerve.

Status: Early human testing. Patients can perceive patterns of light.

4. Future Directions

Researchers are combining microchips, stem cells, and gene therapy to try to restore photoreceptor function instead of just bypassing it. The idea is that one day, a combination of bioelectronic implants and regenerative medicine might fully restore natural sight.