Both image photodetector arrays and retinas are pixelated sensors that dynamically extract various features from the visual scene—e.g., color, brightness, and contrast—before transmitting electrical signals to either a graphical interface of a display or the brain. Image sensors rely on solid state semiconductor technology, whereas retinas rely on photoreceptor cells in water-based ionic environments. A multidisciplinary team of researchers has now developed an innovative image sensor that integrates liquid biological environments with organic electronics, mimicking core functions of the animal retina.

