| Keyword |
Description |
| Retinal |
Light-sensing layer at the back of the eye that enables vision |
| Artificial intelligence |
Software that learns patterns in data to make predictions, such as detecting disease in images |
| Adapter |
An add-on that lets a phone safely capture clear fundus images |
Mexican engineering student Alejandro Aguilar of SABES Celaya won Mexico’s 2025 James Dyson National Award for OpticalApp, a smartphone tool that analyzes retinal photos to flag possible conditions in under 30 seconds, including in low-connectivity settings. Designed for non-specialists, the app uses artificial intelligence to review images, explains likely results in plain language, supports multiple languages, and includes audio guidance to improve accessibility. A low-cost adapter helps a phone camera capture safe, usable fundus images, aiming to complement clinic equipment with a portable, affordable option. He was named one of 28 national winners selected from 2,100 entries, reflecting strong interest in practical health innovations.
The project targets a real gap: datasets and expert tools exist, but fast, affordable screening close to communities is limited, particularly where eye-care specialists are scarce. Aguilar drew motivation from family experience in vision exams and the opportunity to translate research into a mobile-first solution focused on early detection. In Mexico, many people still struggle to see even with glasses, and specialists note that much preventable blindness could be avoided with timely checks, which OpticalApp seeks to facilitate with clearer guidance.
OpticalApp can identify up to 28 retinal diseases alongside a healthy class, then provides straightforward explanations on when professional evaluation is recommended. One of the toughest design challenges was aligning phone light with the pupil without dazzling the subject, shaping plans for a sturdier, integrated housing, a stronger lens, and tighter light control to improve consistency. The adapter and workflow emphasize repeatable positioning so images are usable in diverse settings, from schools to community screens to primary care.
The award includes 126,000 pesos to advance development, and the competition will announce the top 20 finalists on Oct. 15, supporting continued prototyping and review. Other recognized Mexican projects include Rho, a menstrual garment for women facing poverty, and Lifecore, a heart-transplant transport solution, while last year’s national winner created the Signal Glove for Mexican Sign Language. Together, the app, adapter, and recognition show how careful engineering and low-cost parts can expand early eye screening quickly and affordably, reducing barriers to timely care.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Condition |
Condición |
| Images |
Imágenes |
| Language |
Lenguaje |
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- Should offline screening apps be used before visiting a specialist?
- What features make a medical app genuinely accessible?
- How do student awards accelerate real-world health solutions?
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Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Propose a design change to the adapter and explain how it improves image quality and safety.
- Describe how early detection in a community setting could change treatment outcomes.
