Nidek Introduces Phantom Open-field Refraction System

Nidek announced the launch of the Phantom Open-field Refraction System. Phantom is an open-field binocular refraction system that eliminates the use of physical lenses entirely—placing nothing in front of the patient’s eyes. According to Nidek, by removing this long-standing constraint, Phantom enables examinations to be conducted under natural viewing conditions, delivering comfort and highly accurate results. During both objective and subjective refraction, the visual chart appears to float in space.

Instead of traditional lenses, Phantom uses virtual lens technology to simulate the same optical properties as real lenses. Refractive errors are corrected digitally, allowing for seamless, precise adjustments without mechanical lens changes. The system automatically adjusts sphere, cylinder, and axis based on patient responses, enabling a simple and intuitive refraction workflow.

Thanks to its high measurement accuracy, Phantom allows examinations to be completed in under 5 minutes, significantly reducing the need for final checks and improving patient throughput. An intuitive touchscreen interface and clear on-screen guidance make the system easy to operate.

“Phantom is not just an evolution—it is a revolution in refraction,” said Motoki Ozawa, President and CEO of Nidek. “By introducing a completely lens-free, open-field approach, we are creating a new standard for comfort, accuracy, and efficiency in refraction.”

Nidek will showcase Phantom under the tagline “No lenses, just Phantom” at MIDO 2026 in Milan, Italy, January 31 to to February 2, 2026. Visitors are invited to experience this technology firsthand at the Nidek booth D02, D10, F01, F09 in Pavilion 3.

Originally published online on Eyewire+.