Google working on an AI-powered microscope to help doctors spot cancer

Google has developed a prototype unit of the so-called "Augmented Reality Microscope," or ARM, in partnership with the Department of Defense.

The device incorporates AI enhancements to overlay visual indicators, like heatmaps or object boundaries, in real time — which should make it easier to classify samples and identify the presence of cancer cells or pathogens.

First teased publicly in 2018, the ARM has yet to be used to diagnose patients. Currently, some 13 ARM prototypes exist, with significant testing still needed before it can assist everyday clinicians. However, the intention is to create a system that can be "retrofitted into existing light microscopes found in hospitals and clinics," according to Google.

Once operational, these ARM-equipped microscopes will be able to provide visual feedback, including text, arrows, contours, heat maps, and animations — each tailored to unique assessment goals.

The Department of Defense's Defense Innovation Unit has reportedly tapped Google to enable ARM distribution through the military, according to CNBC — with the hope that it could be available to some government users sometime this fall.

ARM is expected to cost between $90,000 and $100,000, which is well beyond the means of local health providers.

It is unclear when these fancy microscopes will start shipping to commercial users, but chances are we'll have to wait a little longer to get more information about that.

Google is no stranger to using AI in healthcare and has been investing heavily across the sectors — either directly or through its life sciences unit Verily, and two of its funds, GV and Capital G. Also, Google itself is running several platforms, including Google Fit and Wear OS.