Artificial Retina Market

Rising R&D Investment in the Pharmaceutical Industry

The increasing prevalence of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa is significantly driving the artificial retina market. AMD, a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, affects millions worldwide, and its prevalence is expected to rise as populations age. Because conventional AMD treatment options usually have limited efficacy, there is an increasing demand for novel solutions to restore vision in affected individuals. As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 19.8 million Americans aged 40 and older were living with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in 2019.

Furthermore, the University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine Tübingen reported that there were 500,000 people suffering from AMD in Germany in 2021. Moreover, LambdaVision, Inc. (US) stated that nearly 1.5 million people were living with retinitis pigmentosa until January 2024.  Artificial retina implants are a promising option for these patients, as they provide a way to bypass damaged retinal cells and partially restore visual function.

Further, the growing number of startups associated with artificial retina implant technology is playing a pivotal role in fueling the growth of the artificial retina market during the forecast period. These startups bring fresh perspectives, innovative approaches, and entrepreneurial drive to the development and commercialization of artificial retina implants. With a focus on agility, flexibility, and disruptive innovation, startups are driving rapid advancements in technology, including miniaturization, improved biocompatibility, enhanced electrode designs, and wireless communication capabilities.

For instance, LambdaVision, Inc. (US) was founded in 2009 and is involved in designing and developing a protein-based artificial retina that uses light-activated protein in order to restore functional sight. Moreover, Retina Implant (Germany) was founded in 2003 and focuses on subretinal implant technology. The company claims that it is the first to have a fully functional electronic retinal prosthesis to restores partial sight to the blind.

As a result, the rising prevalence of AMD and retinitis pigmentosa has prompted increased research, development, and adoption of artificial retina technologies, propelling the market's growth as a critical frontier in vision restoration for those suffering from this debilitating condition. Furthermore, the proliferation of startups promotes competition, which drives innovation and lowers costs, ultimately improving the affordability and accessibility of artificial retina implants for patients worldwide.

The increasing incidence of retinal disorders globally drives the demand for artificial retina implants. Conditions such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa are becoming more prevalent, affecting millions. In 2024, the Global Artificial Retina Implant Market Industry is valued at 1.24 USD Billion, reflecting the urgent need for innovative solutions. As the population ages, the number of individuals suffering from these conditions is expected to rise, further propelling market growth. The potential for artificial implants to restore vision presents a compelling case for investment in research and development, thereby enhancing the overall market landscape.

By region, the study segments the market into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. The North American artificial retina implant market accounted for the largest market share of over 50.12% in 2025, owing to the increasing incidences of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and the presence of implant products with the Food Drug Administration (FDA). For instance, Argus II is a product available in the United States with the approval of the FDA.

FIGURE 3: ARTIFICIAL RETINA IMPLANT MARKET, BY REGION, 2025 & 2032 (USD BILLION) Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

Europe artificial retina implant market shows significant growth during the forecast year, i.e., 2025–2026, owing to the frequently strategic alliances through market players to fulfill the demand of consumers. For instance, in July 2022, Pixium Vision (France) announced successful implantation of first patient in the Netherlands in Prima System European pivotal trial PRIMAvera. Pixium Vision has since established additional clinical sites and implanted patients in Germany as well as the UK.

The Asia-Pacific artificial retina implant market is the fastest-growing region during the forecast period owing to growing geriatric population across the Asia-Pacific region which will hugely contribute to the market growth during the forecast period. For instance, as per the Asia-Pacific Report on Population Ageing 2022, there were approximately 670 million people aged 60 or older in Asia-Pacific in 2022. Also, it has been estimated that the number will double to approximately 1.3 billion people by 2050 in Asia-Pacific.

The artificial retina market is distinguished by the presence of numerous global, regional, and local players catering to the artificial retina. Furthermore, the increasing incidences of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa and the growing number of startups associated with artificial retina implant is further driving the growth of artificial retina market during the forecast period. The major players have adopted a strategy of obtaining regulatory approval from government agencies for their products and signing contracts and agreements to broaden their reach.

Bionic Vision Technologies (Australia) is a privately held company based in Australia that specializes in creating visual prostheses aimed at restoring vision for those who are blind. These innovative devices work by electrically stimulating the remaining retinal cells in individuals with retinal degeneration. Their Bionic Eye System subretinal implant captures visual data with a miniature camera mounted on eyeglasses. Furthermore, in September 2021, the company Bionic Vision Technologies (BVT) has formed a strategic partnership with a leading US MedTech company, Cirtec Medical.

Under the partnership, Cirtec has taken a strategic stake in BVT and will assist the Australian company to develop and manufacture its next generation bionic eye.