When Will AI Replace Opticien-lunetier ?

AI's influence on dispensing opticians will unfold in distinct phases. By 2028, anticipate approximately 45% of tasks to be automated. This transformation is already underway, with routine measurement tasks like pupillary distance and frame sizing, alongside lens verification, increasingly managed by automated kiosks and AI-powered applications. Online retailers are also significantly disrupting traditional brick-and-mortar dispensing models.

The early wave of impact, beginning as soon as 2026, will primarily affect junior opticians in chain stores who perform foundational tasks such as basic measurements and fitting. As we move towards mid-stage automation, more complex verification and fitting processes will be integrated.

However, experienced opticians specializing in intricate prescriptions, including high myopia and progressive lenses, as well as pediatric fitting and personalized consultations, will remain in high demand through 2030 and beyond. This indicates a mid-wave transformation that enhances rather than replaces specialized human expertise.

Junior opticians in high-volume chain stores, whose roles predominantly involve routine measurements and basic fitting, are most vulnerable to early AI automation, with potential impacts starting as early as 2026. These transactional aspects of dispensing are prime candidates for technological replacement.

Conversely, experienced opticians with specialized skills are positioned for long-term demand. Those who excel in complex prescriptions (high myopia, progressive lenses, specialty eyewear), pediatric fitting, and providing personalized, consultative patient care will be highly valued. This human-centric, high-touch service model remains resistant to automation through 2030 and beyond.

Adaptation is key, with a window of 2-6 years depending on your specialization. The profession is clearly splitting into two tracks: low-touch, transactional dispensing, which is highly susceptible to automation, and high-touch, consultative optical care, which remains human-centric and in growing demand.

Focus on developing expertise in areas less prone to automation, such as complex fitting, personalized consultations, and managing specialty eyewear. Building strong patient relationships and offering a superior, personalized service will be crucial differentiators. Leverage AI tools to enhance your efficiency in remaining tasks, rather than fearing them.