Warby Parker offers at-home eye exam — via app

Warby Parker is taking self-service to a new level.



The eyewear retailer built its brand on enabling online shoppers to create their ideal pair of specs. Now the company is further extending its self-service options with an app that lets shoppers take a vision test at home.



Called Prescription Check, the mobile-based refraction service enables users to administer an exam that reviews their vision status directly through their mobile device or computer. The 20-minute test requires a credit card (purely for measuring — not tendering — purposes), 12 ft. of space and a computer.



Here’s how it works: While wearing their current Warby Parker glasses, the app guides then through a series of steps to assess whether the customer’s vision has changed since their last doctor visit. Results are reviewed remotely by an eye doctor, according to the retailer.



If there is no change, the doctor can write a new prescription and deliver it via the app. If it has changed, the doctor will request the patient book a comprehensive eye exam.



Prescription Check is currently available to customers between 18 and 40 years old who wear Warby Parker glasses, and who reside in California, New York, Florida and Virginia. For now, the service is free. The retailer is already planning on expanding the program to more states in the near future, Warby Parker said.



According to the company’s website, the retailer continues updating its technology, suggesting that the service could be expanded to a wider range of shoppers, including those who may not be regular Warby Parker shoppers.