Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have developed a groundbreaking technique called 'Oz' that allows individuals to perceive a brand-new color, named 'olo' [1, 4]. Published in *Science Advances* on April 18, 2025, this innovative approach manipulates the human eye to experience a blue-green hue of unprecedented saturation [1, 2].
How 'Oz' Works
The 'Oz' technique involves using lasers to precisely stimulate photoreceptor cells in the retina [2, 4]. By creating a detailed map of each participant's retina, the researchers can target and activate specific cone cells responsible for detecting red, green, and blue light [1, 2]. Selectively activating only the green-sensitive cones (M cones) bypasses the usual activation patterns, introducing the brain to a novel color sensation [2, 5].
Implications and Future Applications
The 'Oz' technique has significant implications for vision research. It could be used to replicate the effects of eye diseases, potentially enhancing the understanding of vision loss [1, 2]. In theory, it may also simulate full-color vision in individuals with color blindness by compensating for defective photoreceptors [1, 5]. While integration into everyday displays is unlikely in the near future, 'olo' represents a significant advancement in understanding human vision and manipulating color perception [2, 3].